Scientist I

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative Scientist with a Ph.D. in AI-ML, Structural Biology, computational biology, Molecular Biology, or a related field, to join our Vaccine translational sciences team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Artificial Intelligence - machine learning (AI-ML) assisted protein antigen design, with demonstrated expertise in structure-based design, immunogen engineering, and translational vaccine development. This position offers the opportunity to work at the cutting edge of innovation, contributing to the development of next-generation vaccines targeting infectious diseases and emerging pathogens.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and engineer recombinant protein antigens optimized for immunogenicity, stability, and manufacturability using emerging AI-ML and in-silico based methods.
• Use structure-based design approaches (e.g., homology modeling, cryo-EM/X-ray structural interpretation) to guide antigen and antibody discovery & development.
• Collaborate with protein chemists, molecular biologists and immunologists to assess antigen performance in preclinical models (e.g., ELISA, neutralization assays, B cell profiling).
• Work cross-functionally with other computational biologists, structural biologists, and immunologists in the team to iteratively improve antigen candidates.
• Interpret structural, biophysical, and immunological data to inform antigen design strategies.
• Present research findings in internal meetings and contribute to scientific publications and external presentations when needed.
• Contribute to patent applications and regulatory documentation for clinical development.
• Stay abreast of the latest developments in AI-ML, vaccine technologies, antigen design strategies, and immune escape mechanisms.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in either computational biology, AI-ML, Immunology, Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field.
• 1 or more years of relevant postdoctoral or industry experience in protein antigen design or vaccine discovery. Exceptional candidates with no postdoctoral experience will also be considered.
• Strong knowledge of protein structure (X-Ray, CryoEM) and function, antigen-antibody interactions, and immune system principles.
• Proficiency in computational tools for protein modeling and design (e.g., Rosetta, PyMOL, AlphaFold, Chimera and large language models (LLM) in the context of protein design).
• Experience and familiarity with recombinant protein expression, purification, and characterization (e.g., SDS-PAGE, SEC, SPR, DSF), including structural biology methods - CryoEM or X-Ray crystallography.
• Track record of scientific excellence as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications and/or patents.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with rational antigen-based vaccine design for viral (e.g., HIV, influenza, RSV, coronaviruses) and bacterial and other pathogens.
• Familiarity with AI-ML assisted softwares - PyMol, Alphafold, epitope mapping, deep mutational scanning and simulation of molecular interactions, including large multi-complex protein heteromeric complexes.
• Experience working in a regulated (GLP/GMP) environment is a plus.