Research Scientist - Protein Engineering

Main Functions

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative Research Scientist to join our team focused on protein engineering. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing and optimizing recombinant protein production systems for use across Lallemand’s business units. This position is based in Lebanon, NH and will report directly to the Project Manager.

Responsibilities

• Lead protein engineering efforts to improve enzyme performance for defined industrial applications using rational design and directed evolution approaches.
• Design and execute protein engineering campaigns, including variant library generation, screening strategy development, and data-driven candidate selection.
• Apply structure-guided and computational approaches to support hypothesis generation, variant prioritization, and interpretation of structure-function relationships.
• Develop and run application relevant screening and characterization assays to evaluate enzyme activity, stability, and robustness.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Process Development and Application teams.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation, technical documentation, and internal scientific communications.
• Stay current with advances in protein engineering and computational biology and assess new methods for potential application.

Technical Skills Required

• Strong background in protein structure-function relationships and molecular modeling.
• Familiarity with structure-guided protein design, energy models (e.g., Rosetta, molecular dynamics) or AI-driven (e.g., AlphaFold) tools, docking.
• Experience with recombinant protein expression and characterization.

Personal Abilities Required

• Ability to work on multiple and simultaneous projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

General Criteria

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field; or M.S. with equivalent industry experience.
• Candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States.