Biochemistry Scientist - Center for Protein Degradation

Biochemistry Scientist - Center for Protein Degradation

Job Details

Job ID:
29724

Location:
450 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA 02215

Category:
Research Laboratory

Employment Type:
Full time

Work Location:
Onsite:Up to 1 day remote/wk

Overview

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) and Deerfield Management have created the Center for
Protein Degradation (CPD) at DFCI. The goals of the CPD are to create a next-generation
protein degrader platform and interrogate and advance a large portfolio of protein degrader
targets. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a newly founded research center that is
pushing the boundaries of targeted protein degradation research and accelerating the
translation of basic science into clinical solutions. Join our highly interactive team of scientists
where we are creating new avenues of therapeutic intervention.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute brings
together world-renowned clinicians, innovative researchers and dedicated professionals, allies
in the common mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS and related diseases. Combining
extremely talented people with the best technologies in a genuinely positive environment, we
provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all ages; we conduct research
that advances treatment; we educate tomorrow's physicians/researchers; we reach out to
underserved members of our community; and we work with amazing partners, including other
Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

The Center for Protein Degradation (CPD) seeks a highly motivated individual to join the
biochemistry team as a SCIENTIST focusing on the development of in vitro assays that
advance small molecule degraders and molecular glues in cancer and immune contexts. The
individual will work with a multidisciplinary team to biochemically validate new targets, as well as
develop and implement assays to support compound optimization. The individual will work
closely with internal research teams, external collaborators, and contract research organizations
(CROs) to design and develop strategies that establish proof-of-concept methods, execute
small molecule screens, identify, and optimize novel molecular glues. The candidate will provide
insights that impact the direction of our research, such as due diligence on new target
nominations, while also driving lab-based innovations. The individual will regularly present
progress to the rest of the group and leadership.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities:

• Independently plan, manage, and perform biological experiments. Develop project
  proposals, timelines, and resource needs, working closely with the Portfolio Manager
  and leadership. Monitor milestones and ensure deliverables are completed on time
• Collect and analyze experimental data and identify next steps based on outcomes
  Train research associates and other scientific staff in methods/techniques
• Develop, perform, and analyze screening assays to evaluate the activity of degrader and
  glue molecules
• Develop, implement, and deliver mechanistic insights into the mode of action of targeted
  degrader molecules
• Work closely with chemistry, biology, biochemistry, and proteomics teams to guide
  compound optimization and project progression
• Prepare presentations and present project status and outcomes at internal and external
  meetings
• Interact and liaise with internal and experts, academic groups, and CROs to establish
  collaborations and projects
• Pursue opportunities to publish research externally
• Maintain clear and accurate records of experimental work (e.g., experimental methods,
  results/findings)

Qualifications

• PhD degree in biochemistry, chemical biology or related disciplines
• Expertise in in-vitro assays including TR-FRET, FP and ITC
• Extensive knowledge in protein biochemistry, protein purification and biophysical
  characterization
• Experience in recombinant protein expression in bacterial, insect and/or mammalian
  cells
• Experience in mammalian cell culture and lentiviral work
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Scientific drive; proven track record of publications in peer reviewed journals
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment
• Ability to work independently as well as in a collaborative environment
• Proficiency in all common Microsoft Office and GraphPad Prism software
• Excellent organizational and prioritization skills; strong attention to detail

Desirable:

• 2+ years of postdoctoral experience
  
• Experience with design and HTS assay optimization (384 well based screens)
• Experience with flow cytometry, high content imaging and protein X-ray crystallography
  are a plus
• Background in structural biology, chemical biology, biochemistry

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong. As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of cancer for all, we are equally committed to diversifying our faculty and staff. Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and diverse professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is an equal opportunity employer and affirms the right of every qualified applicant to receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other groups as protected by law.