Research Associate, Protein Biochemistry Application

Research Associate, Protein Biochemistry

Seattle, Washington, United States

Location: On-site

About Vesto Therapeutics

At Vesto Therapeutics we are pioneering a new class of AI-generated proteins for targeted therapeutic applications in oncology. Our platform integrates state-of-the-art computational protein design with high-throughput molecular screening to engineer molecules with novel biophysical and functional properties that address limitations of current cancer therapies. We operate as a highly interdisciplinary team spanning computational protein design, protein engineering, chemistry, cell biology, and translational development. Vesto has operations in Seattle, Madrid and Lisbon.

About the Role

We are seeking a motivated Research Associate, Protein Biochemistry to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will provide hands-on experimental support to our protein design team, contributing to protein purification and characterization, yeast surface display screening, and biophysical binding assays. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career scientist who is excited to build strong laboratory skills in a fast-paced and highly collaborative biotech environment. The ideal candidate is eager to learn, highly organized, and comfortable supporting a range of routine and project-based laboratory activities. Our team is led by experienced professionals who are passionate about mentorship and fostering growth opportunities for team members.

Key Responsibilities:

· Prepare buffers, stock solutions, and other laboratory reagents, troubleshoot as needed, and maintain accurate records of laboratory inventory.

· Support recombinant protein purification workflows, including chromatography-based purification and AKTA/FPLC-based size exclusion chromatography (SEC).

· Prepare protein samples and run routine analytical assays such as SDS-PAGE gels to assess purity, integrity, and yield.

· Assist with yeast surface display screening workflows and biophysical binding assays, including BLI sample preparation and execution.

· Perform basic molecular biology tasks such as cloning, PCR, and DNA preparation to support protein production and screening efforts.

· Provide support with routine laboratory operations, including organization, restocking consumables, equipment maintenance, and general lab upkeep.

· Collaborate closely with scientists across the organization to support experimental workflows and contribute to team goals.

· Other tasks as needed.

Required Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, bioengineering, cell biology, or a related scientific discipline.

· Hands-on experience in a laboratory environment through coursework, research experience, internships, or industry experience.

· Basic familiarity with common protein biochemistry and molecular biology techniques such as buffer preparation, pipetting, SDS-PAGE, PCR, and sample handling.

· Ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and maintain accurate experimental records.

· Meticulous note keeping, communication skills, and attention to detail.

· Ability to work independently and in a dynamic environment.

· Working understanding of molarity and concentrations and how to calculate them.

· Ability to lift 50 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

· Hands-on experience with protein purification methods such as affinity chromatography and SEC.

· Experience with AKTA/FPLC systems or similar protein purification equipment.

· Experience with yeast surface display, protein characterization assays, or biophysical binding assays such as BLI.

· Experience with basic cloning and PCR workflows.

Nice to Have

· Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture.

· Experience working in a biotechnology or protein engineering research environment.

· Interest in protein therapeutics, oncology, and interdisciplinary translational science.

Compensation: Annual

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, seeking to provide an open, flexible, and friendly work environment to empower employees. We offer a competitive package that includes base salary and 401(k) with company match. Benefits include health, dental and vision insurance, and paid time off.

The base pay range for this position is expected to be $50,000- $65,000 annually; however, the base pay offered may vary depending on the market, job-related knowledge, skills and capabilities, and experience.

Interested in joining our team? Please apply directly through our application form here: https://form.jotform.com/260816994649071

Vesto Therapeutics is an equal-opportunity employer seeking to build a highly constructive workplace environment for all. TO ALL RECRUITMENT AGENCIES: Vesto Therapeutics does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias or employees. Vesto Therapeutics is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.