What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Associate Co-Op, Protein Biochemistry position at Keros Therapeutics?
Keros Therapeutics is a public, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of novel treatments for patients suffering from hematological and musculoskeletal disorders with high unmet medical need. We are a leader in understanding the role of the transforming growth factor-beta, or TGF-ß, family of proteins, which are master regulators of red blood cell and platelet production as well as of the growth, repair and maintenance of muscle and bone. We have leveraged this understanding and developed a discovery approach to generate large and small molecules to address diseases of these tissues. Targeting TGF-ß signaling pathways has been clinically proven to elicit robust changes in blood cells, muscle, and bone, which we believe provides a precedent and strong rationale for our strategy.
Keros Therapeutics is seeking a highly motivated and collaborative individual to join our protein biochemistry group within our Research Department. Our group exploits multidisciplinary approaches in protein sciences and protein engineering, to better the understanding of the biochemical, biophysical, and structural functional properties of the biomolecules within the TGF-β superfamily that drive the signaling pathway. Our efforts greatly contribute to advance innovative research and drug discovery, and heavily support our discovery pipeline.
You will have the opportunity to learn about early-stage drug discovery from a protein chemistry perspective as well as through internal and external collaboration with other departments. You will play an important role supporting in vivo and in vitro studies crucial for the progress of our therapeutic research programs by generating high-quality proteins and other reagents in this hands-on laboratory position. The successful candidate will produce and evaluate novel molecules, while being inquisitive about the science, able to troubleshoot by consulting literature/colleagues, and capable of adapting to each scientific challenge.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Protein purification: purify proteins to required reagents' quality (FPLC, affinity/ion-exchange/SEC and other chromatographic techniques)
- Protein expression: assist with routine mammalian expression of our therapeutic molecules to support ongoing studies
- Protein characterization: Perform assays and other characterization techniques (cell-based, SPR, BLI assays, SDS-PAGE, Analytical SEC, HPLC) to characterize therapeutic and novel molecules
- Maintain clear, accurate documentation of computational and experimental laboratory work and summarize results as needed in study reports
- Provide updates at research meetings in both oral and written formats
Qualifications:
- Enrolled in a master's program in biochemistry, structural biology, chemistry, or a related discipline
- Experience working with wet lab benchwork, lab etiquette, pipetting, and volumetric handling. Ability to perform chemical stoichiometric calculations and buffer preparation
- Experience in protein purification using multi-platform chromatography techniques (affinity, ion-exchange, SEC) and /or biophysical methods for protein characterization is preferred
- Experience with protein expression in mammalian and/or bacterial cells is desirable
- Protein chemistry, protein-protein interactions, and/or protein engineering experience is a plus
- Ability to work as part of a cross-functional team and independently with supervision
- Exhibit excellent communication and organization skills, detail-oriented, proficient in MS office, data analysis, and slide presentation
- Displays a high degree of maturity, honesty, trust, and integrity. Considers a scientific problem/question an opportunity for innovation and intellectual growth
- Previous co-op or intern experience is preferred.
Our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Mission Statement: Keros is an inclusive company. We believe that diversity drives innovation. We continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the diverse voices of our employees. As such, Keros takes a holistic approach in mentoring, coaching, and developing all of our Keros team members.
Keros Therapeutics is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
