Principal Scientist/Associate Director, Protein Sciences

POSITION TITLE: Principal Scientist/Associate Director, Protein Sciences

ABOUT US:
Calibr was founded on the principle that the creation of new medicines can be accelerated by pairing world-class biomedical research with state-of-the-art drug discovery and development capabilities. Calibr, a division of Scripps Research, is a first-of-its-kind, nonprofit translational research institute dedicated to creating the next generation of medicines. Scripps Research is ranked the most influential institution in the world for its impact on innovation. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into leading edge scientists. Leveraging the unique scientific environment of Scripps Research, impacting translational sciences, Calibr has created a portfolio of drug candidates, and is shaping a new paradigm for advancing nonprofit biomedical research to impact patients while re-investing in further innovative research. We expand basic knowledge in the biosciences and use these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve wellbeing. Calibr’s drug development portfolio spans a broad range of human diseases, including cancer, autoimmunity and inflammatory diseases, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, infectious and neglected diseases, as well as age-related and degenerative diseases. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

POSITION SUMMARY:
Calibr is seeking exceptionally talented Principal Scientist / Associate Director candidates to lead the protein engineering and expression team within the biologics discovery team at Calibr. This position will be responsible for directing a group of scientists to design, produce, and characterized protein candidates that have the potential to become next generation therapies. The team will work as part of a larger team of interdisciplinary scientists to profile molecules, select leads, and translate candidates into first in human clinical trials. Programs under the responsibility of this position will focus on antibody engineering, including bi, tri, and multispecific antibodies, in the development of novel immuno-oncology agents. However, the role will also provide protein to support to a wide range of projects at Calibr including infectious and neglected tropical diseases, metabolic disorders, autoimmunity, and other rare disease indications. Calibr is a highly engaging and collaborative place with work and this position will be encouraged to engage in the seamless flow of ideas within and between research groups. This position is expected to bring with them the proficiencies listed below and can expect to receive world class training in translational medicine at Calibr. Primary responsibilities will include resource management, keeping up to date on current literature, development and implementation of state-of-the-art processes, infrastructure/instrumentation management, development of reports, presentations to key stakeholders, database management, and management of personnel. Wet lab work may be within the scope of this position to train personnel in cloning, protein expression and purification, and biophysical characterization. Candidates with exceptional experience in antibody engineering who are looking to take the next steps in their career and join a high impact team are encouraged to apply. This position offers significant growth opportunity through promotion structures designed to retain exceptional talent within the Calibr team.

REQUIREMENTS:

• A strong background in protein expression platforms including HEK, CHO, E. coli, is essential. Experience in yeast and insect is advantageous.
• A strong background in protein purification is essential. The candidate should be proficient at FPLC, HPLC, gravity drip columns, and a wide range of affinity and capture technologies including SEC, IEX, mixed-mode, etc.
• A strong background in* molecular biology* including DNA isolation and purification, construct design, and assembly-based cloning is essential.
• A strong background in biophysical characterization of proteins is essential. Important competencies include, but are not limited to, RP, IEX, SEC chromatography, biacore & octet, and HR-MS of proteins.
• Experience in upstream and downstream process development is important but not required.
• Experience in medium and high throughput protein expression is highly advantageous for this role.
• Experience in tech transfer of processes to CROs is useful.
• Experience in wave bag expressions and fermentations is helpful.
• Outstanding organization skills and experience in preparing scientific and technical documents including detailed data reports, protocols, CoTs is important.
• Experience using graphing programs such as Prism, Excel, JMP, or Spotfire software is important.
• Experience in retro, lenti, or AAV based viral vectors is important but not essential
• Master’s degree with 7+ years’ experience; PhD with 6+ years’ experience, post degree, in protein chemistry, chemical biology, biochemistry or relevant scientific discipline.
• Previous experience managing a team of scientists
• Industry experience is strongly preferred, but outstanding candidates without industry experience may also be considered.
• Excellent ability to perform hands on experiments, attention to detail, research, design, and organize project designs and maintain detailed documentation.
• Highly motivated, creative, and devoted to project goals.
• Able to collaborate proficiently and communicate effectively with colleagues and management teams.
• Able to contribute in a meaningful way to scientific discourse.
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.

EEO Statement:
The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status. Underrepresented individuals are encouraged to apply.

COVID-19 update:
The safety and well-being of our candidates, our people and their families continues to be a top priority. Until restrictions change, interviews will be conducted virtually.

Job Type: Full-time