The Role

Debut Biotech is hiring a full-time Scientist to lead our team on a new and exciting project area. You will work closely with other project team members and our external partner to advance the science. This project focuses on creating biotherapeutics with our proprietary cell-free platform. Specifically, you will utilize the cell-free enzyme platform to create specific post-translational modifications (PTMs) on biotherapeutics alongside a world-leading partner. You can expand your technical skill set while working on cutting-edge core technology on this team.

What you will be doing

• Leading this project at Debut, including planning and execution of experiments, supervising junior scientists, and interfacing with our external partners.
• Identify, select, express, and purify enzymes from a known family of PTM modifiers.
• Design and develop activity assays for specific PTM installation.
• Enzyme characterization and optimization for application with our cell-free platform.
• Work alongside our internal Analytical and Gene Discovery teams and external experts.

What you bring to the table

• A Master’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or other disciplines with 5+ years’ experience, or a Ph.D. in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or other associated disciplines.
• Broad molecular biology experience, including DNA manipulation, protein purification, and enzyme activity assays.
• Previous work with heterologous expression systems.
• Previous work on enzymes used in post-translational modifications
• Strong collaborative skills and ability to excel in a fast-paced environment.
• May be required to stand for long periods while performing duties. 
• Must be flexible to work varying schedules and hours as needed. 

Other

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.
• Must be willing to work with biohazardous agents (up to BSL2).
• Work requires sufficient hand, arm, and finger dexterity to operate computer keyboard and office equipment. Laboratory operations require dexterity and care to perform studies as required.
• The R&D laboratory will result in exposure to hot and cold temperatures, noise, fumes, limited dust, and oily coolants.
• Requires walking, climbing stairs, bending and occasional lifting of material up to fifty (50) pounds.
• The performance of this position will present exposure to an industrial environment and requires support and compliance with the published Company PPE policy including but not limited to the use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses with side shields, appropriate attire, safety shoes, hard hat, hearing protection, etc.
• Must be willing to work non-standard hours supporting a 24/7 operation including weekends.
• Debut Biotech is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.