Principal Scientist, Protein Sciences

About Synolo Therapeutics:

Synolo Therapeutics, an early-stage biotechnology company launched by RA Capital, is pioneering the development of precision-targeted immunotherapies. Powered by computational protein design and proprietary technologies which yield biological data sets at unprecedented scale and resolution, we are building a pipeline of first-in-class multi-specific biologics with novel functionalities. Synolo was founded by pioneers in the field of protein design and engineering, synthetic biology, DNA sequencing, immunology, and biologics drug discovery and development.

About RA Capital:

RA Capital Management funds and builds healthcare and life science companies using an evidence-based investment approach informed by TechAtlas, a think tank within RA Capital which analyzes scientific and clinical data from academic literature and industry sources to anticipate how breakthroughs might impact industry stakeholders, physicians, patients, and policymakers. TechAtlas' analyses are captured in a unique collection of competitive landscapes, or ‘maps’, that identify competitive therapeutics, diagnostics, research tools, and/or technological capabilities in a given area.

About the Role:

Synolo Therapeutics is seeking an innovative, self-motivated, and team-oriented Principal Scientist in Protein Science to drive the discovery and development of novel medicines in a fast-paced startup environment. In this role, you will leverage your expertise in protein expression, purification, and characterization to establish and manage in-house capabilities, as well as generate and characterize lead product candidates. Your deep knowledge of Protein Science will be instrumental in supporting cross-functional teams and advancing our drug discovery and development programs. As a key member of our growing and dynamic team, you will play a vital role in our mission to develop novel therapeutics to improve patients’ lives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build and manage in-house capabilities of protein expression in mammalian cells (e.g. CHO) and E. coli, as well as protein purification, to support research activities, project goals, and platform development
• Design and execute experiments to express multi-specific biologics
• Purify lead candidates using various liquid chromatography techniques
• Conduct biochemical and biophysical characterization of purified leads
• Evaluate protein solubility, stability, and formulation of purified leads
• Perform developability studies on lead panels of molecules using biophysical methods
• Analyze and communicate experimental results to cross-functional teams to foster collaboration and drive project success
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior team members as needed
  
  
  

Qualifications & Skills:

• Hands-on experience in protein expression in CHO and/or other mammalian cells
• Extensive experience in protein purification using various types of chromatography (Protein A/G affinity, IMAP, ion exchange, SEC, HIC) with AKTA or related protein purification FPLC systems
• Proficiency in molecular and cell biology techniques, including mammalian cell culture, transfection, Western blot, SDS-PAGE, and ELISA
• Expertise in antibody characterization using HPLC, such as reverse phase, SEC, AEX, and/or CEX
• Experience in assessing binding kinetics and affinity between antigen and antibody (SPR, BLI, or monolith)
• Hands-on experience in characterization of antibody, including DSF, DSC, DLS, and/or SEC-MALS
• Strategic thinker with the ability to seamlessly navigate between rigorous scientific details and high-level context and implications
• Strong analytical skills, with meticulous attention to detail, the ability to multitask, and a commitment to follow-through
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to build strong working relationships with cross-functional teams
• Clear and effective communicator, both written and verbal
  
  
  

Education & Experience:

• PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Engineering or a related field
• PhD with 6 years of experience, with at least 2 years in Biotech/Pharma industry
• Title will be commensurate with experience
  
  
  

Preferred Experience:

• Hands-on experience with expressing, purifying, and characterizing bi-specific or multi-specific biologics a strong plus
• Hands-on experience making expression constructs
• Prior experience managing direct report(s) preferred
  
  
  

At Synolo Therapeutics, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and treated with dignity. We believe that diversity drives innovation and strengthens our ability to make a meaningful impact through our work. We are committed to being an equal opportunity employer who ensures that all qualified applicants receive equal consideration for employment without regard to neurodiversity, race/ethnicity, color, national origin, religion, gender, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, disability, genetic information, military service, covered/protected veteran status or any other federal, state or local protected class.