Research Biologist - Protein Science

Company

At BioCryst, we are passionate about advancing novel therapeutics for patients with rare and serious diseases. Our structure-guided drug design process leads us to the discovery and development of novel small-molecule drugs. We integrate traditional biology and medicinal chemistry along with a wide array of advanced technologies to understand the three-dimensional structures of active sites of target enzymes. Our scientists then design molecular structures to create bespoke drugs for patients. We focus on therapeutic areas with either no available treatments or large unmet patient needs. BioCryst s US headquarters are located in Durham, North Carolina, our European headquarters in Dublin, Ireland and our Discovery Center of Excellence in Birmingham, Alabama. We are proud of our culture of engagement and accountability that rewards people for innovative thinking and achievement of key objectives. For more information, please visit the Company s website at www.biocryst.com.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced research biologist with strong protein background to join discovery research at BioCryst. The successful candidate will have the proven capabilities to work effectively across a broad spectrum of biological targets and therapeutic areas and possess a combination of strong technical skills in establishing bioassays for drug discovery programs. The candidate will assist the protein science group to develop biological assays or strategies to ensure effective achievement of drug discovery and preclinical programs. Conduct and collaborate with other departments within the company as well as consults with outside contract organizations on research and development projects relevant to long term objectives and concerns of the company. Responsible for the BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Biology lab/tissue culture lab.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Design, validate, and conduct in vitro biological and immunological assays for the pharmacological characterization of new biological drug candidates for multiple research programs.
• Develop and optimize analytical methods for biologics characterization and screen compounds in single concentration and concentration-response schemes, analyze and report data.
• Conduct cell-based assays to enable drug discovery efforts to measure the functional consequences of inhibition of diverse targets, including signaling pathways and enzyme activities. These assays include ELISA, Western blot analysis, real time PCR, AlphaScreen, etc.
• Assists protein science group in protocol development and related reports for preclinical studies
• Participates in technology development in biology. Maintains broad knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories.
• Implements procedures for monitoring projects in house and with contract facilities to inform management of current project status.
• Direct and maintain Biosafety Containment II Area within the tissue culture facility.
• All other duties as assigned.

Experience & Qualifications

• PhD (or an equivalent combination of education and experience) in biochemistry, biology, immunology, or pharmacology with a proven track record of publication.
• In-depth knowledge and working experience in molecular biology, protein chemistry, cell biology. The ideal candidate will have working experience in developing biological assays for drug discovery programs.
• Experience or deep knowledge in biophysical characterization of protein-protein and protein-small molecule interactions by Surface-plasmon resonance (SPR), Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), thermal shift assay (TSA), etc.
• Deep knowledge in protein expression and purification, protein functional characterization. The experience of protein expression and purification would be a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate at all levels within the organization.
• Demonstration of organizational and project management skills with flexibility in working with organizations and/or partners with different cultures, values, mindsets, and approaches.
• Detailed-oriented with meticulous oversight, coordination, and tracking abilities.
• Ability to work independently under limited supervision.
• Ability to invest time, as required, and expedites and/or completes assignments whenever necessary to meet corporate objectives.
• Ability to work in a challenging environment with frequent interruptions, changing priorities and deadlines.
• Must be able to lift 10 to 15 lbs (tanks, solutions, etc).

The statements in this position description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. The manager may assign additional responsibilities and assignments from time to time.

BioCryst is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities without regard to age, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, Veterans status, disability and/or other protected class characteristics. Additionally, BioCryst is committed to achieving its business objectives in compliance with all federal, state and local law.

BioCryst requires all U.S. based employees to either (a) establish that they have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19; or (b) obtain an approved exemption as an accommodation. Proof of vaccination or an approved exemption form is required after a conditional job offer has been made to the applicant and prior to the start date. This requirement is a condition of employment at BioCryst, and it applies regardless of whether the position is located at a physical BioCryst location or is fully remote.