Scientist II, Antibody Discovery & Protein Sciences
Marengo Therapeutics, an ATP company, is developing the next generation of T cell immune engagers that activate and expand a novel population of "superkiller" T cells. Marengo's antibodies induce potent and durable anti-tumor responses in refractory solid tumor models and promote protective tumor immunity ("immune memory") while triggering less pro-inflammatory cytokine release than anti-CD3 T cell engagers. Marengo's lead project, a first- and -best-in-class therapy with single-agent potential, is progressing to IND for PD1-refractory solid tumors. The company's advanced antibody discovery platform has also generated a pipeline of multi-specific antibody therapies with potential in multiple tumor types.
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced, versatile, and self-driven individual to our growing team of energetic scientists. This is a unique opportunity to collaborate with colleagues in Discovery and Early Development teams to directly contribute to discovering novel IO therapeutics. This hire will play a key role in the design and optimization of our next-generation biologic therapeutics, with a focus on fusion proteins and antibodies. The successful candidate will have a demonstrated in-depth understanding of in vitro display (e.g., phage and yeast) methodologies, antibody discovery workflows, protein engineering and excel in a fast-paced environment. The candidate will be responsible for advanced lab activities and is expected to impact at the organizational level in a matrix team environment.
Responsibilities and Duties
* Carry out hands-on lab work to apply molecular biology, yeast/phage display, protein biochemistry and rational protein engineering techniques to generate novel protein therapeutics to target immune system.
* Lead execution of protein engineering and antibody discovery/optimization efforts such as humanization, affinity maturation, specificity modulation, and platform improvements
* Act as a Subject Matter Expert in Antibody discovery and engineering and provide guidance to the research project teams.
* Manage several projects simultaneously and act as single point of accountability on projects.
* Analyze and present data, both in written reports and oral presentations.
* Effectively manage projects and resources to maximize progress.
Qualifications and Skills
* PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular or Structural Biology or a closely related field and extensive experience in Antibody optimization is required.
* Prior experience in pharma or biotech is highly preferred.
* Hands-on experience using phage/yeast display and other experimental approaches to optimize properties of antibodies.
* Experience with molecular cloning, library construction and deep sequencing is highly preferred.
* Knowledge in bioinformatics and structural modeling would be an advantage.
* Experience working in a matrix environment.
* Attention to detail and a problem-solving mentality.
* Highly analytical mind, attention to detail, and organizational skills are critical.
* Self-starter with a strong sense of responsibility, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.
* Ability to work independently to design and troubleshoot experiments.