Our client is a fast-moving immunovirology biotech start-up based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, focused on creating next-generation broad-spectrum biologic therapeutics. Their mission is to harness innate immune biology (via their proprietary technology) to design synthetic proteins that modulate immune pathways and fight viral diseases — a bold, mission-driven effort that aims to change how we treat multi-viral and immune-related disorders.

They’ve already attracted serious backing and are being recognized rapidly in the biotech community (recently named a finalist in the regional “Startup of the Year” awards) for their scientific ambition, collaborative culture, and growth potential.

The Job: The Protein Engineering and Antibody Discovery team is the leading edge of discovery. The ideal Scientist/Senior Scientist will bring strong technical skills, meaningful industry experience, a collaborative approach to cutting-edge scientific research, and be motivated to make a meaningful impact, addressing unmet medical needs.  

Job Title: Senior/Principal Scientist, Antibody/Protein Engineering

Primary responsibilities include: 

• Antibody discovery and lead optimization 
• Protein engineering, including novel format design, creation of antibody mimetics, and antibody affinity maturation.
• Antibody humanization using CDR grafting and framework engineering. 
• Perform Fc engineering for effector function manipulation and half-life extension.
• Antibody developability analysis and stability engineering of lead antibodies.
• Manage external vendors for antibody discovery 
• Execute strategies for antibody optimization efforts employing advanced molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology techniques, protein analytics, and bioinformatics modeling. 
• Assay development to support screening of antibodies and novel candidate therapeutic proteins
• This role will collaborate with cross-functional teams to discover and optimize novel therapeutic leads. Understanding disease biology in the context of the antibody structure-function relationship is important.

Requirements: 

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Immunology, Biochemistry, or other relevant fields with 3+ years of industry experience in protein engineering or antibody discovery 
• Strong hands-on molecular biology experience is required. 
• Expertise in phage and/or yeast display and library screening.
• Experience in antibody expression and purification is a plus. 
• Experience in mentoring, training, and managing others.