Scientist, Protein Biochemistry

Who we are:

Calico (Calico Life Sciences LLC) is an Alphabet-founded research and development company whose mission is to harness advanced technologies and model systems to increase our understanding of the biology that controls human aging. Calico will use that knowledge to devise interventions that enable people to lead longer and healthier lives.  Calico’s highly innovative technology labs, its commitment to curiosity-driven discovery science, and, with academic and industry partners, its vibrant drug-development pipeline, together create an inspiring and exciting place to catalyze and enable medical breakthroughs.

Position description:

The successful candidate will join a multi-disciplinary protein science team with a focus on functional analysis of protein targets relevant to human aging and oncology. The candidate will leverage different biophysical/biochemical approaches to understand protein activity and its modulation by different modality of molecules including peptides, small molecules and antibodies. The candidate will work closely with structure biologists, computational modeling scientists and protein biochemists in the Protein Sciences group to investigate structure-activity relationship to drive compound optimization. Additionally, this position will have the unique opportunity to collaborate with our Computing Group on the in-silico design and validation for protein binders. The ideal candidate must be highly motivated, detail-oriented, work autonomously with a variety of experimental techniques, and be comfortable presenting results to cross-functional teams.

Position requirements:

• Ph.D. in biochemistry or related discipline plus >2 years postdoc experience or equivalent experience working in biopharma/biotech sectors. Track record of high-profile publications is desirable
• Strong expertise in protein-peptide, protein-small molecule or protein-protein interaction characterization, including SPR, BLI, FP (fluorescence polarization), Mass spec, DSF, ITC, etc.
• Proficient in protein-based assay development including ELISA, enzymatic activity assay, AlphaLisa, etc.
• Experience with protein engineering, including PEGylation
• Experience with assay automation
• Proficient in structure analysis with software including Chimera, Pymol, etc.
• Experience with protein expression and purification is highly preferred
• Experience with LC-MS and AS-MS is highly desired
• Previous CRO management experience is preferred
• Experiences with peptide synthesis and peptide modification chemistry are preferred
• Accountable, meticulous with attention to detail, and able to multitask
• Strong teamwork and proactive communication skills
• Self-motivated and able to work independently in a cross-functional team environment
• Must be willing to work onsite at least four days week

The estimated base salary range for this role is $127,000 - $135,000. Actual pay will be based on a number of factors including experience and qualifications. This position is also eligible for two annual cash bonuses.