Scientist (Protein Sciences)

About the role
Reporting to Jan (Head of Protein Sciences), the Scientist (Protein Sciences) drives the development, optimization, and characterization of purification workflows and analytical assays that inform and advance our larval recombinant‑protein platform. This vital role combines rigorous process development with scientific discovery to understand platform behaviour and improve product quality. As a trusted owner of key initiatives, the role is responsible for independently executing experiments and translating results into novel methodologies that expand the platform’s capabilities. This position moves beyond following protocols to proactively troubleshooting and providing the high-quality data essential to scaling our impact.

This role will own:

* Executing complex end-to-end purification workflows to isolate high-quality target proteins from our unique biological matrices.

* Building and refining a modular library of extraction and purification protocols that work across diverse protein classes.

* Conducting deep-dive investigations into purification hurdles, such as protein aggregation, low recovery, or persistent impurities, to enhance the fundamental robustness of the platform.

* Analyzing multidimensional datasets to generate “protein profiles” that provide critical feedback for upstream genetic design and downstream application development.

* Performing analytical assays, including SDS-PAGE and Western Blotting, to verify protein identity, purity, and structural integrity.

* Maintaining meticulous, real-time documentation within Benchling (ELN) to ensure platform insights are preserved, searchable, and actionable for the broader team.

This role will assist by:

* Collaborating across teams including CDMO, Genetics and Manufacturing to connect molecular architecture with final protein performance.

* Acting as a trusted, supportive teammate in the lab, identifying and resolving technical bottlenecks before they impact project timelines.

We’re looking for a scientist who isn’t satisfied with just a result – you want to understand the why behind platform behaviour. You take full responsibility for your initiatives, ensuring that your work doesn’t just end with a successful run, but with actionable insights that move the business forward. You are resilient, solution-focused, and ready to iterate with intention to achieve a breakthrough.

Must-haves

* MSc with ≥2 years’ or BSc with ≥4 years’ relevant experience in recombinant protein expression, purification and characterization.

* Proven hands‑on experience with chromatographic purification (affinity, ion‑exchange, HIC, SEC) and filtration workflows at bench scale.

* Experience running analytical assays for product quality (SDS‑PAGE, Western, activity assays) and ability to interpret data to guide process decisions.

* Demonstrated ability to design and execute complex experiments, prioritize competing projects, and deliver results on time.

* Strong documentation practices and experience with ELN and protocol repositories (Benchling or equivalent).

* Excellent communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills; comfortable working directly with upstream and engineering teams to connect molecular design with purification outcomes.

* Proactive, solution‑oriented, with strong attention to detail and a bias for rapid iteration and learning.

Bonus points

* Familiarity with SPR, HPLC, mass spectrometry or other analytical techniques is an asset.

* Experience with AKTA systems or automated liquid handling.

* Familiarity with insect-based expression or other non-traditional platforms.