Lead Scientist

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute cloning strategies (ligation-based, Gibson Assembly, recombination-based, shRNA, long-range PCR) for cell line engineering and recombinant protein generation Design expression constructs with appropriate vectors, promoters, and tags optimized for screening assays Apply computational tools (AlphaFold, ESM, ProteinMPNN, Rosetta) for protein domain design, linker optimization, and variant engineering Build and maintain sequence-to-outcome datasets; develop predictive models to improve construct success rates Curate and expand a multi-species gene/isoform ortholog database linked to experimental outcomes Design gene delivery constructs (AAV, mRNA, LNP) in collaboration with in vivo teams Educational Qualifications: M.Sc/M.Tech in Biotechnology/Biology/Molecular Biology Experience: 4-7 years of research experience Required Technical Skills Proficiency in molecular cloning techniques: ligation-based, recombination-based (e.g., Gateway, Gibson Assembly), sub-cloning, and long-range PCR Solid understanding of expression vector design, including promoter selection, signal peptides, and protein tags Hands-on experience with construct design software: SnapGene, Geneious, and/or Vector NTI Familiarity with computational protein engineering tools (AlphaFold, ESM, Rosetta, ProteinMPNN) or strong interest and aptitude to develop these skills Strong foundation in bioinformatics, sequence analysis, comparative genomics, and computational biology. Proficiency in Python, R, or related scientific programming tools Experience with or exposure to NGS data analysis and multi-species sequence comparison Diligent documentation practices, including detailed electronic lab notebook (ELN) entries Working knowledge of EHS (Environment, Health & Safety) practices in a laboratory setting Desirable Skills & Experience Experience in reagent and plasmid inventory management. Familiarity with automated liquid-handling platforms and workflow automation. High-throughput cloning workflows. Exposure to ML/statistical modeling applied to biological datasets Behavioral Skills A proactive team player. Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks and work on multiple projects simultaneously with minimal supervision; comfortable working in a dynamic environment with changing requirements. Good oral and written communication and presentation skills to work in a multi-disciplinary team.