Scientist I/II (Protein Biochemistry) - Appia Bio

About the Role

Appia Bio is seeking an innovative and experienced Protein Biochemist ready to take on the challenge and opportunity presented by the new frontiers of cell therapy. The research programs at Appia will be focused at the intersection of immunology, cell engineering, and cancer biology. The scientist will be a key member of the scientific team that shapes a culture of intellectual rigor and collegiality at Appia.

Responsibilities

• Design protein expression constructs of both soluble and membrane proteins in eukaryotic hosts for use as antigens and immunogens
• Generate purified protein of soluble and membrane protein targets as well as Ab-based target binders (g. scFvs, Fabs, etc.)
• Characterize biophysical properties of targets and binders (g. thermostability and binding affinity)
• Manufacture and characterize cell therapy products driving towards candidate selection
• Develop assays to functionally screen lead binders to be incorporated as chimeric antigen receptors (CARs).
• Design and execute on proof-of-concept cell biology/immunology experiments (including phenotypic and functional characterization) of novel cell therapy approaches.
• Contribute to a Biology research group with a culture of scientific excellence, teamwork, and innovation.
• Develop strong relationships and communicate effectively with the executive staff, other members of the biology group, and academic founders.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will be an accomplished scientist with a track record of success in academia and/or the biotechnology industry. More senior candidates will have a minimum of 5 years of research experience after their degree including experience in industry. The ideal candidate may have experience in protein biochemistry, protein engineering, cell biology, immunology, or cell therapy engineering.

• A B.S., M.S., Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in Protein Biochemistry or a related field.
• Extensive experience in recombinant protein expression, purification, and characterization are essential (g. target overexpression in mammalian cell systems, AKTA-based chromatography, Octet or SPR-based affinity measurement).
• Primary cell culture and flow cytometry experience are necessary; some immunology experience is preferred
• Broad experience in routine biochemistry laboratory techniques including western blotting, ELISA, etc.
• Previous experience with display technologies (yeast or phage) and antibody-based lead molecule discovery are pluses.
• Highly motivated self-starter with strong presence, work ethic, exceptional interpersonal skills, and focus.
• Deep knowledge, and keen intellect for integrating novel science and emerging technologies to address complex problems.
• Outstanding communication skills with the ability to build transparent and collaborative relationships across the company and with other stakeholders of the company.