Senior Research Associate - Molecular Biology

Monod Bio, Inc.; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company-paid health insurance

PTO and holidays

Parental leave

Bus line access near SLU

Job summary

Monod Bio, Inc. seeks a Sr. Research Associate / Associate Scientist in Molecular Biology to support the Discovery Team in protein design and optimization. The role involves DNA assembly, mutagenesis, yeast display screening, and biochemical techniques for lead identification.

The candidate will perform high-throughput expression screening in E. coli, purification via affinity and SEC, and analysis using BLI and biophysical methods, all while maintaining thorough documentation in Benchling.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biochemistry, biophysics, analytical chemistry, biology, biotechnology, chemical engineering, or related fields.
• 2+ years of molecular biology techniques (DNA work, PCR, cloning and plasmid purification).
• Experience with staining panels, flow cytometry, and sorting in yeast.
• Proficient in electronic lab notebook platforms (e.g., Benchling).
• Strong organization, communication, and independent work ability.

Responsibilities

• Independently perform molecular biology and protein manufacturing tasks.
• Design and conduct mutagenesis to create diverse DNA libraries.
• Design staining panels for FACS screening of yeast display libraries.
• Plan and execute standard molecular biology techniques including PCR, Golden Gate cloning, plasmid preps, and DNA purification.
• Conduct high-throughput protein expression screening in E. coli using 96-well plates.
• Perform binding assays using BLI.
• Purify proteins using affinity and size-exclusion chromatography.
• Characterize protein quality and stability with SEC-MALS, CD, and thermostability assays.
• Maintain accurate records in Benchling and collaborate to fulfill protein production requests.

Skills

Molecular biology

DNA cloning

PCR

Protein expression

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in biochemistry/biology/biotechnology

Tools

Benchling

Flow cytometry instrumentation

Job description

Monod Bio is a pioneer company in the design of de novo protein reagents for the life sciences and diagnostics industries. Our innovative design platform technology leverages recent advances in deep learning computational protein engineering to create rapid, highly sensitive protein-based reagents and assays. Our visionary founding team and state-of-the-art technology and product development experience position Monod Bio at the forefront of molecular reporter, binder and functional protein innovation. We welcome exceptional individuals to join us in this journey.

Monod Bio is seeking a Sr. Research Associate / Associate Scientist in Molecular Biology (depending on experience) with a strong foundation in molecular biology and protein biochemistry. In this role, you will support our Discovery Team in protein design and protein optimization efforts through advanced DNA assembly and protein mutagenesis schemes, FACS screening of yeast display libraries, and biochemical techniques for lead identification. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment while maintaining clear, rigorous documentation.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently perform molecular biology and protein manufacturing tasks.
• Design and conduct mutagenesis experiments to create diverse DNA libraries.
• Design and implement staining panels for FACS screening of yeast display libraries.
• Assist in experimental planning and troubleshooting under the guidance of senior scientists.
• Plan and execute standard molecular biology techniques including PCR, Golden Gate cloning, plasmid preps, and DNA purification.
• Conduct high-throughput protein expression screening in E. coli using 96-well plate formats.
• Perform binding assays using Bio-Layer Interferometry (BLI).
• Purify proteins using affinity chromatography (Ni-NTA, Strep-Tactin) and size exclusion chromatography (SEC).
• Characterize protein quality and stability using SEC-MALS, circular dichroism, and thermostability assays.
• Maintain accurate records of experiments and materials in Benchling.
• Collaborate with the team to fulfill protein production requests and ensure timely delivery.
• Support additional lab operations and projects as needed.

Required Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, biophysics, analytical chemistry, biology, biotechnology, chemical engineering, or related fields.
• 2+ years of experience with molecular biology techniques (DNA work, PCR, cloning and plasmid purification).
• Experience with staining panel development, flow cytometry, and sorting in yeast.
• Extensive experience with tracking data and recording results in electronic lab notebook format (e.g., Benchling).
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with strong communication skills and the ability to work independently.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 2+ years of relevant experience in life sciences in either industry or academia.
• Hands-on experience with DNA library construction and preparation for sequencing.
• Experience with yeast transformation and yeast surface display methodologies.
• Experience with biochemical and biophysical methods such as BLI, FPLC, SDS-PAGE, and SEC-MALS.
• Proven track record with protein sciences, purification, and analysis in academia or industry.

Physical environment and key requirements:

• Ability to perform work in both an office and laboratory environment, including BSL-1 and BSL-2 laboratories; familiarity with biological and chemical hazard handling (safety training and personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided).
• Office mobility and the ability to stand for periods of time as needed is required.
• Capability to work in an environment with mild odors and moderately loud sounds typical of laboratory work and biological specimen preparation (appropriate PPE provided).

We are proud to provide a generous benefits package and a healthy work culture:

• 100% company-paid medical, dental, life/AD&D, and vision insurance premiums for employees scheduled to work 25+ hours per week. 50% paid premiums for eligible dependents.
• 4 weeks PTO per year plus 11 paid holidays.
• Parental leave benefit.
• State-of-the-­art lab and office on bus line and near coffee shops, restaurants, and South Lake Union neighborhood.
• Casual environment, friendly colleagues, and of course, excellent snacks and coffee in the kitchen!

Every position requires certain physical capabilities with the major ones for this role noted above. Monod Bio seeks to provide reasonable accommodations that enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential duties when possible. Equal employment opportunity is a fundamental principle at Monod Bio. We are committed to nondiscrimination in all business operations. We are proud to enjoy a respectful and inclusive work environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.