Research Associate - AI-Driven Protein Design and Engineering, Georgetown University Medical Center

Research Associate - AI-Driven Protein Design and Engineering, Georgetown University Medical Center

Georgetown University, United States

about 6 hours ago

Location:

La Center, WASHINGTON

Job Type:

PartTime

Georgetown University comprises two unique campuses in the nation's capital. With the Hilltop Campus located in the heart of the historic Georgetown neighborhood, and the Capitol Campus, just minutes from the U.S. Capitol and U.S. Supreme Court, Georgetown University offers rigorous academic programs, a global perspective, and unparalleled opportunities to engage with Washington, D.C. Our community is a close-knit group of remarkable individuals driven by intellectual inquiry, a commitment to social justice, and a shared dedication to making a difference in the world.

Requirements

Job Overview

The Joshi Lab (PI: Dr Priyanka Joshi) is seeking a highly motivated Masters-level Research Associate to join our interdisciplinary team at the intersection of artificial intelligence and protein engineering. This unique position combines cutting-edge computational modeling with hands-on laboratory experimentation to design and validate novel proteins using state-of-the-art protein language models.

Key Responsibilities

Computational Modeling & AI Development

Train and fine-tune ESM (Evolutionary Scale Modeling) protein language models on curated datasets to generate novel protein sequences

Develop and optimize machine learning pipelines for protein design, including data preprocessing, model training, and validation protocols

Analyze protein structure-function relationships using computational tools and databases

Implement and maintain bioinformatics workflows for sequence analysis and protein characterization

Collaborate on algorithm development to improve protein generation accuracy and diversity

Laboratory Experimentation

Express, purify, and characterize computationally designed proteins using standard molecular biology techniques

Perform protein purification protocols including chromatography, electrophoresis, and spectroscopic analysis

Conduct functional assays to validate AI-generated protein designs and assess their biochemical properties

Maintain detailed laboratory records and ensure compliance with safety protocols

Troubleshoot experimental procedures and optimize protocols for improved protein yield and purity

Research Integration & Analysis

Bridge computational predictions with experimental validation through iterative design-build-test cycles

Analyze experimental results to inform and improve machine learning model performance

Prepare comprehensive reports documenting both computational and experimental findings

Present research results at team meetings and contribute to scientific publications

Collaborate with cross-functional teams including computational biologists, biochemists, and software engineers

Work Interactions

The Research Associate will work directly with the PI and collaborate with the lab members and any external collaborators.

Requirements and Qualifications

Education & Experience

Master's degree in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Machine Learning, Biochemistry, or related field

Minimum 1-2 years of experience in both computational modeling and laboratory research

Technical Skills - Computational

Proficiency in Python, with experience in machine learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, or JAX)

Hands-on experience with protein language models, particularly ESM or similar transformer-based architectures

Knowledge of bioinformatics tools and databases (UniProt, PDB, BLAST, structural analysis software)

Experience with high-performance computing clusters and cloud computing platforms

Familiarity with version control systems (Git) and collaborative development practices

Technical Skills - Laboratory

Demonstrated expertise in protein expression, purification, and characterization techniques

Proficiency in molecular cloning, bacterial/yeast expression systems, and protein chemistry

Experience with chromatographic methods (FPLC, HPLC) and analytical techniques (SDS-PAGE, Western blot, mass spectrometry)

Knowledge of protein folding, stability analysis, and functional assays

Understanding of laboratory safety protocols and quality control procedures

Core Competencies

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail

Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to team projects

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Experience with data visualization and statistical analysis

Project management skills and ability to meet deadlines

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with protein design software (Rosetta, ChimeraX, PyMOL)

Knowledge of structural biology techniques (X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, NMR)

Familiarity with directed evolution and high-throughput screening methods

Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Google Cloud) for computational biology workflows

Publication record in peer-reviewed journals

Experience with collaborative research environments and interdisciplinary projects

Work Mode Designation

This position has been designated as on campus. Please note that work mode designations are regularly reviewed in order to meet the evolving needs of the University. Such review may necessitate a change to a position's mode of work designation. Complete details about Georgetown University's mode of work designations for staff positions can be found on the Department of Human Resources website: hr.georgetown/mode-of-work-designation .

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Benefits:

Georgetown University offers a comprehensive and competitive benefit package that includes medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance, retirement savings, tuition assistance, work-life balance benefits, employee discounts and an array of voluntary insurance options. You can learn more about benefits and eligibility on the Department of Human Resources website .