What are the responsibilities and job description for the Protein Expression & Purification Scientist position at Planet Pharma?
Target PR Range: 43-53/hr DOE
Position Summary
The Lead Discovery and Structural Biology Department within is seeking a highly qualified Protein Expression & Purification Scientist (Contractor) with demonstrated expertise in molecular biology, heterologous protein expression, and protein purification. The successful candidate will contribute to research programs within an industry-leading drug discovery environment leveraging access to state-of-the-art protein expression and purification platforms. Responsibilities include executing expression workflows in baculovirus expression vector systems (BEVS)/insect cells, as well as in E. coli, including high-throughput (HTP) small-scale expression screening, followed by downstream purification and analytical characterization. Experience with biophysical methods is considered an asset.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
Position Summary
The Lead Discovery and Structural Biology Department within is seeking a highly qualified Protein Expression & Purification Scientist (Contractor) with demonstrated expertise in molecular biology, heterologous protein expression, and protein purification. The successful candidate will contribute to research programs within an industry-leading drug discovery environment leveraging access to state-of-the-art protein expression and purification platforms. Responsibilities include executing expression workflows in baculovirus expression vector systems (BEVS)/insect cells, as well as in E. coli, including high-throughput (HTP) small-scale expression screening, followed by downstream purification and analytical characterization. Experience with biophysical methods is considered an asset.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
- Perform molecular biology workflows, including:
- Cloning, vector design, construct optimization, and sequence verification
- PCR, primer design, restriction?based, and recombination?based cloning
- Execute protein expression using:
- BEVS/insect cell systems, including virus generation, amplification, and expression optimization
- E. coli expression, including IPTG?induced and auto?induction strategies
- High?throughput (HTP) small?scale expression testing for rapid screening of constructs and conditions
- Conduct purification of recombinant proteins using standard chromatographic techniques (affinity, ion exchange, size?exclusion chromatography).
- Optimize expression constructs, culture conditions, and purification workflows to achieve the required yield, purity, and quality.
- Perform analytical characterization, including SDS?PAGE, Western blotting, SEC, and other relevant assays.
- Maintain accurate and complete laboratory records in accordance with internal documentation standards (experience with Benchling is a plus).
- Communicate experimental results, observations, and recommendations to team members in a clear and timely manner.
- Adhere to all laboratory safety policies and organizational compliance requirements.
- Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Structural Biology, or related field with 3 years of relevant industry experience, or
- Master’s degree with 1 year of relevant industry experience
- Strong molecular biology and cloning expertise is required.
- Proven track record of protein expression in BEVS/insect systems and E. coli, including HTP small?scale expression screening.
- Demonstrated proficiency in chromatographic purification and method development.
- Experience with biophysical characterization techniques (e.g., LC?MS, SPR, MST, SEC?MALS, nanoDSF, mass photometry) is preferred but not required.
- Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills across cloning, expression, and purification workflows.
- Ability to work independently while contributing and collaborating effectively with cross?functional teams.
- Excellent organizational, documentation, and communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet project timelines in a fast?paced environment.