Senior Scientist - Protein Expression

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Scientist with deep expertise in bacterial cell-free protein expression to join an innovative scientific team in Rockville, Maryland. This role offers the independence, resources, and cross-functional collaboration to advance protein expression technologies and drive meaningful research programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and optimization of bacterial cell-free protein expression workflows across a variety of protein targets
• Improve extract preparation methods to increase protein yield, solubility, and functional activity
• Design high-throughput screening strategies for constructs, chaperones, and reaction conditions
• Analyze protein expression and quality using SDS-PAGE, Western blot, ELISA, capillary electrophoresis, and related methods
• Troubleshoot complex expression challenges and recommend new technologies, platforms, and approaches
• Lead scientific projects while partnering with multidisciplinary research teams
• Document experimental results and contribute to SOPs, technical reports, and patent-related materials

Requirements

• PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Protein Science, or a closely related discipline
• Hands-on expertise with bacterial cell-free protein synthesis, including optimization and troubleshooting
• Strong knowledge of E. coli molecular biology, protein expression, and extract preparation
• Experience with automated or high-throughput screening platforms
• Strong protein characterization and analytical laboratory skills
• Demonstrated ability to independently lead research initiatives and collaborate across scientific teams

Pay

Base salary: $115,000–$135,000 plus bonus. Relocation assistance available.