Contract Senior Research Associate, Protein Science

Keros Therapeutics is seeking a highly motivated and collaborative individual to join our protein biochemistry group within our Research Department. Our group exploits multidisciplinary approaches in protein sciences and protein engineering, to better the understanding of the biochemical, biophysical, and structural functional properties of the biomolecules within the TGF-β superfamily that drive the signaling pathway. Our efforts greatly contribute to advance innovative research and drug discovery and heavily support our discovery pipeline.

You will have the opportunity to learn about and contribute to early-stage drug discovery from a protein chemistry perspective as well as through internal and external collaboration with other departments.  You will play an important role supporting in vivo and in vitro studies crucial for the progress of our therapeutic research programs by generating high-quality proteins and other reagents in this hands-on laboratory position. The successful candidate will produce and evaluate novel molecules, while being inquisitive about the science, able to troubleshoot by consulting literature/colleagues, and capable of adapting to each scientific challenge.

Primary Responsibilities

• Perform routine mammalian expression of our therapeutic molecules through stable expression in CHO cells to support ongoing studies
• Establish stable cell lines of new drug candidates when necessary
• Perform assays and characterization techniques (SDS-PAGE and SEC-HPLC) to characterize R&D molecules
• Protein purification: assist with the purification of proteins to required reagents’ quality (FPLC, affinity/ion-exchange/SEC and other chromatographic techniques)
• Maintain clear, accurate documentation of computational and experimental laboratory work and summarize results as needed in study reports.
• Provide updates at research meetings in both oral and written formats.

Our Ideal Candidate

• A Bachelor’s or master’s degree in biochemistry, chemistry, engineering or a related field with 2-4 years of industry experience
• Experience with protein expression in mammalian and/or bacterial cells is required
• Experience with mammalian expression in wave bioreactors and/or stirred tank bioreactors is highly desirable
• Experience with CHO cell line development activities is preferred
• Experience with protein characterization techniques is desirable
• Experience in protein purification using multi-platform chromatography techniques (affinity, ion-exchange, SEC) is desirable
• Experience working with wet lab benchwork, lab etiquette, pipetting, and volumetric handling. Ability to perform chemical stoichiometric calculations and buffer preparation.
• Ability to work as part of a cross-functional team, and independently with supervision.
• Exhibit excellent communication and organization skills, detail-oriented, proficient in MS office, data analysis, and slide presentation.
• Displays a high degree of maturity, honesty, trust, and integrity. Considers a scientific problem/question an opportunity for innovation and intellectual growth.