Scientist, Protein Screening

Alpine Bio is a plant genetics company focused on redefining protein production from the soil up. We believe that replacing resource-intensive production methods with highly efficient and regenerative systems can facilitate rapid, planet-scale change. 

Our proprietary biomanufacturing platform makes this possible. Since 2016, we’ve been transforming soybeans into the world’s most efficient protein factories, harnessing their natural ability to create functional proteins at scale and unprecedented efficiency.

Our first ingredient, casein, an unstructured dairy protein that gives cheese its stretch, melt, and much of its nutrition, has been developed. We've designed the seeds, grown the plants, purified the protein, and we’re rapidly moving towards commercialization. 

About the Role: 

By joining our team of scientists you will play a key role in supporting our protein screening team by creating and improving processes, preparing samples, performing routine/ad hoc experiments, and developing relevant documentation. This effort will contribute to the next generation of plants that will transform the food system. Success in this position will have a direct impact on the speed of discovery and the company’s growth in this space.

Who you are: 

• Expand the capabilities of the protein screening team
• Contribute to improving the efficiency, quality and consistency of routine biochemical analysis and sample preparation
• Join a team that generates key data that will drive our R&D strategies

Responsibilities:

• Develop, troubleshoot and optimize new protein identification assays
• Develop protocols/SOPs and implement quality control measures
• Identify and troubleshoot anomalies in data collection/analysis
• Perform routine screening activities (protein extraction and immunoassays like ELISA & Western blot)
• Extract proteins from plant tissue and perform protein quantitation assays (Bradford, Pierce 660, UV 280nm)
• Perform protein gel electrophoresis and Immunodetection assays (SDS-PAGE, ELISA, Western Blot, dot blot)
• Analyze and organize routine and development data in a useful manner to communicate with various stakeholders 
• Create and/or modify data analysis templates in Excel or other software for team use
• Present data in weekly team and stakeholder meetings, document results in daily written reports and in the company database
• Work within a team to make reagents, buffers, stock solutions, clean glassware, and maintain inventories
• Attend and present protein screening data in cross-functional meetings as needed
• Guide and organize workload for more junior team members as needed

Required Skills and Experience:

• Masters in life sciences or similar discipline (biology, biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, etc.) + 7 years experience in an academic or industry research lab 
• Fundamental and applied knowledge of Protein Science
• Ability to research and apply protein specific properties to new assay development
• Experience with running and optimizing protein quantification and immunodetection assays (Western blot and ELISA).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office products, Google Suite services or other data manipulation software
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Passion for efficiency and process optimization with an ability to multitask
• Resourceful, eager to learn, and team-oriented, with meticulous attention to detail
• Ability to work independently in a timely manner 
• Ability to work in a highly dynamic and fast paced environment.
• Self-motivated with a strong desire to both learn from and teach others
• Experience using automated liquid handlers and laboratory automation a plus
• Management/mentorship experience a plus
• Local candidates preferred

Closing: 

The pay range is currently between $91,000 to $130,000 in annual gross compensation. Within the range, individual pay is determined by many factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

Alpine Bio offers competitive compensation, generous healthcare, dental and vision plans, 401(k) and commuter benefits.