Principal Scientist, Protein Engineering

SystImmune is a leading and well-funded clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company located in Bothell, WA and Princeton, NJ. It specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments using its established drug development platforms, focusing on bi-specific, multi-specific antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). SystImmune has multiple assets in various stages of clinical trials for solid tumor and hematologic indications. Alongside ongoing clinical trials. SystImmune has a robust preclinical pipeline of potential cancer therapeutics in the discover and IND-enabling stages, representing cutting-edge biologics development. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company's success.

SystImmune is seeking a Principal Scientist to join our Protein Engineering group and help advance novel therapeutic antibodies, including bi-specific and multi-specific antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), through discovery and into development. This is a scientist role with a strong emphasis on data analysis and drug development: you will design and interpret experiments, manage project timelines, and translate results into decisions that move programs forward.

The ideal candidate has deep, hands-on antibody engineering expertise gained in industry, a high-level understanding of the responsibilities of the role, and the ability to work independently to meet high-demand deadlines. The candidate keeps current with emerging scientific techniques, brings competency in AI/ML and computational methods, and is expected to eventually supervise research associates.

This is a full-time onsite position in Bothell, WA and will require some evening meetings.

Requirements

Scientific Leadership and Project Management

• Lead and advance target projects: conduct literature reviews, coordinate cross-functional teams, set and manage project timelines, and compile comprehensive data reports
• Apply deep antibody engineering expertise to the design, optimization, and characterization of therapeutic antibody candidates, including bi-specific and multi-specific formats
• Stay current with novel scientific techniques and technologies, and evaluate and introduce state-of-the-art approaches that accelerate project timelines and drive impactful discoveries
• Work independently and prioritize effectively to meet high-demand deadlines in support of multiple drug development programs
  
  

Data Analysis and Drug Development

• Contribute scientific input to project planning and drug development strategy in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams
• Apply computational, statistical, and programming tools to analyze data and support candidate selection
  
  

Experimental Expertise

• Direct and perform protein purification (affinity, ion-exchange, and size-exclusion chromatography on FPLC systems) and protein analytics (HPLC, BLI/SPR for protein-protein interactions, and DLS/SLS thermal melts for stability)
• Oversee and perform mammalian expression and cell culture
• Fluent inmolecular biology techniques such as Gibson and Golden Gate Assemblies, PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, and plasmid preparation
  
  

AI/ML and Computational Methods

• Apply AI/ML and computational approaches to protein engineering and data analysis workflows
• Use AI-assisted coding tools and coding agents, and evaluate AI agents, to improve the speed and quality of analysis and scientific work
  
  

Team Leadership and Lab Management

• Mentor junior scientists and research associates, and over time supervise research associates, fostering a culture of collaboration and scientific excellence
• Maintain accurate records in accordance with company standards (including the laboratory information management system), ensure safety compliance, and support lab organization and operations
  
  

Requirements

• PhD in biochemistry, biophysics, molecular biology, structural biology, cell biology, or a related field
• 8 years of industry experience is required
• Strong understanding of antibody engineering
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and meet high-demand deadlines, and to manage project timelines
• Strong data analysis skills and a track record of contributing to drug development
• Expertise in protein purification and handling; strong background in molecular biology, structural biology, biophysics, and biochemistry
• Competency in AI/ML and computational skills, including familiarity with AI agents and AI-assisted coding tools and coding agents
• Ability to maintain records within a laboratory information management system (LIMS), and to review and synthesize recent relevant literature
• Strong publication record of multiple high-impact papers in relevant fields
  
  

Preferred

• Experience with mammalian expression systems
• Prior experience mentoring or supervising laboratory staff
  
  

Compensation and Benefits:

The expected base salary range for this position is $130,000 - $160,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to a candidate’s level qualifications, experience, and skills.

While most offers typically fall within the low to mid-point of the range, we may extend an offer toward the higher end for exceptional candidates whose background and expertise exceeds the requirements of the role.

SystImmune is a leading and well-funded biotech company with a bright future. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success. SystImmune offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 100% paid employee premiums for medical/dental/vision, also STD, LTD, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match of up to 3% and a vesting schedule of only 5 years, 15 PTO days per year, sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays and MORE.

We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success.

SystImmune is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome diverse talent and encourage all qualified applicants to apply.