Research Associate - Biocatalysis

About the role

Cascade Biocatalysts is seeking a Research Associate to join our growing team. The role will assist the enzyme team in designing, executing, and advancing internal and customer-driven enzyme projects.

Responsibilities

• Execute and help troubleshoot enzyme activity assays to support screening and characterization of engineered enzyme variants.
• Perform molecular cloning, plasmid construction, and related DNA handling to generate constructs for enzyme variant libraries.
• Express and purify recombinant enzymes (including via cell-free protein synthesis), and assess purity and identity using techniques such as SDS-PAGE.
• Support bioconjugation experiments utilizing Cascade’s Body Armor for Enzyme™ immobilization technology.
• Adapt to rapidly evolving project needs and fast-paced project timelines, deadlines, and contribute to cross-functional tasks as required.
• Collaborate within a cross-functional team, including biochemists, chemical engineers, and chemists, to design experiments, troubleshoot issues, and contribute to project planning and execution.
• Maintain meticulous, well-organized records of experimental procedures, observations, and results. Organize and analyze data using appropriate statistical methods and software.
• Contribute to the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for assay development, cloning, and protein expression workflows. Prepare clear reports, summaries, and presentations to effectively communicate research findings and progress to the team.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the laboratory space. Assist in routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment.

Qualifications

• Experience in a research laboratory environment, with exposure to biochemistry and/or molecular biology techniques such as enzyme assays, bioconjugation, PCR, SDS-PAGE, assay development, recombinant protein expression, or cloning preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, biology, chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field and 1-2 years of relevant work or research experience in protein biochemistry, enzymology, molecular biology, or related disciplines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team.
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the challenges of a startup environment.
• Eagerness to learn and willingness to take on diverse responsibilities.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.

Benefits

Cascade Biocatalysts is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage diversity in the workplace and strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

About Cascade Biocatalysts

Cascade Biocatalysts is empowering enzymes to change how molecules are made. We are commercializing our Body Armor for EnzymesTM technology to make enzymes rugged and reliable for cost-effective biomanufacturing and, ultimately, a sustainable, more capable 21st-century chemical economy. You will play a pivotal role in developing and improving the enzymes that power our products. Your expertise will contribute to ensuring the quality, reliability, and performance of our enzymes as we commercialize innovative biocatalytic technology. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact within a dynamic and growing organization. Join us in our mission to revolutionize sustainable chemical manufacturing through the power of enzymes and polymers. Your contributions can help create a greener and more sustainable future for all.

Pay

$60,000 - $75,000

Schedule

Full-time