Scientist I/II, Platform Discovery

Profluent is an AI-first protein design company. Founded in 2022, we develop deep generative models to design and validate novel, functional proteins to revolutionize biomedicine. Based in Emeryville, CA, we are backed by leading investors including Spark Capital, Insight Partners, Air Street Capital, AIX Ventures, and Convergent Ventures.

We are seeking a motivated and creative Scientist I/II to join our Platform Discovery team. In close collaboration with our bioinformatics, machine learning, and automation teams, you will lead efforts to discover, characterize, and engineer novel gene editing proteins. This includes developing robust high-throughput workflows in biochemical and/or cell-based systems. Your work will be foundational for expanding our gene editing toolbox and enabling new therapeutic opportunities.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with protein engineering to improve activity and in-depth knowledge of mammalian genome editing methods and workflows. This is an excellent opportunity to work cross-functionally with a diverse team of experts across AI and machine learning, protein design, cell biology, and gene editing.

Responsibilities:

• Working closely with bioinformatics, machine learning, and automation, lead cross-functional campaigns to discover, characterize, and engineer proteins for DNA manipulation.
• Design, execute, and automate robust biochemical and/or cell-based workflows for the characterization and engineering of novel gene editing tools.
• Develop and validate assays to measure on- and off-target activity of novel gene editing systems using a combination of targeted and genome-wide analytical methods.
• Analyze data to drive critical go/no-go decisions, clearly present conclusions and rationale to stakeholders across the organization.
• Collaborate with Therapeutic Translation team to advance promising candidates for further characterization in therapeutically relevant cell-based systems.
• Stay up to date on the latest developments in gene editing technology, relevant clinical applications, delivery systems, and cellular models.
• Mentor junior team members in the design and execution of experiments

Qualifications:

• PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field + 0-3 years of experience in an academic or biotechnology setting; title commensurate with level of experience.
• Deep, hands-on experience in protein engineering to improve activity, ideally in the context of DNA manipulating enzymes or genome engineering.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian genome editing, in-depth knowledge of DNA repair and methods to analyze DNA repair outcomes.
• Expertise in high throughput screening (mammalian, microbial, and/or in vitro)
• Extensive hands-on experience and deep understanding of NGS-based assays
• Extensive hands-on experience with molecular cloning and/or mammalian cell culture.
• Proven track record of independently and successfully leading multifaceted research projects
• Excellent communication skills, ability to present complex ideas, anticipated timelines, and results to colleagues and stakeholders.

Preferences (but not required):

• Experience with process automation and scaling to develop high throughput workflows, ideally in a biotechnology/industry research setting.
• Experience or high-level familiarity with methods for ex vivo and in vivo delivery of genome editing systems

What we offer at Profluent

• A high-growth opportunity with meaningful impact
• Competitive compensation package
• Health insurance (health/dental/vision)
• Generous paid time off (PTO) policy
• Commitment to physical and mental well-being
• More benefits and perks to be added!

Profluent Bio, Inc is an equal opportunity employer promoting diversity and inclusion in the workspace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding), genetic information, taking or requesting statutorily protected leave, or any other basis protected by law.

Work Authorization Requirement

Applicants must have ongoing work authorization in the United States that does not require employer sponsorship. Sponsorship will not be provided now or at any time in the future for this position.

Employment Eligibility Verification

Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired must verify their identity and work eligibility and complete the required employment verification form upon hire.