THE ROLEWe are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate II to join our Protein Sciences team, supporting the discovery, engineering, and characterization of proteins. Reporting to the Principal Scientist, Protein Sciences, this individual will play a central role in the molecular biology, protein expression, and functional screening work that underpins our programs.
The ideal candidate is hands-on, technically rigorous, and comfortable operating independently in a fast-paced startup environment. They take pride in generating clean, reproducible data, communicate results clearly, and thrive in collaborative, high-performing teams. This role requires strong practical experience with core microbiology operations, molecular cloning, and protein analysis techniques, along with the flexibility to work across multiple host organisms as the platform scales and a drive to advance solutions to critical global environmental challenges.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIESMicrobiology & Laboratory Operations- Perform routine microbiology operations including media preparation, agar plate preparation, and aseptic technique
- Maintain rigorous good laboratory practices (GLP) and contribute to a strong culture of safety and operational excellence
- Generate and maintain microbial cell banks and inventory records
- Support routine laboratory maintenance, equipment upkeep, and troubleshooting
Molecular Cloning & DNA Assembly- Design and execute PCR for cloning, mutagenesis, and genotyping applications
- Perform DNA assembly using Golden Gate, Gibson, and other modern cloning techniques
- Run and analyze agarose gels; perform plasmid preparation (mini-prep, maxi-prep) and nucleic acid quantification
- Perform sequencing analysis using state-of-the-art NGS technologies and software
- Maintain accurate construct and strain records in Benchling
Protein Expression, Purification & Analysis- Express engineered protein constructs across bacterial, yeast, and/or fungal expression systems
- Analyze protein expression, purity, and integrity via SDS-PAGE and/or Western blot
- Support protein purification workflows using standard chromatography and related techniques
High-Throughput Screening- Support high-throughput screening workflows for functional characterization of protein variants, including assay setup, execution, and data capture
- Contribute to optimizing screening conditions for reproducibility and throughput
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Documentation- Collaborate closely with the Protein Sciences team members and cross-functional partners
- Maintain clear, well-organized experimental records and communicate results effectively to the team
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree (with 2-5 years of relevant research experience) in Bioengineering, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or related discipline.
- Hands-on experience with core microbiology operations: media prep, agar plate prep, aseptic technique, and general GLP
- Strong hands-on experience with molecular cloning: design, PCR, gel electrophoresis and analysis, isolation, Golden Gate, Gibson assembly, and related techniques
- Experience with protein analysis techniques including SDS-PAGE and Western blot
- Strong communication, organizational and documentation skills
- Ability to independently execute experiments and troubleshoot routine issues
Preferred Experience
- Exposure to high-throughput screening workflows
- Experience working across multiple host organisms, such as E. coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Pichia pastoris, Bacillus, Pseudomonas putida, or Aspergillus niger
- Familiarity with bioinformatics/ELN tools such as Benchling and Geneious
- Experience with protein purification and chromatography techniques
- Experience supporting protein engineering or functional screening campaigns
LOCATION: Cambridge, MA
The salary range for this role is $74,000 - $93,500. Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidate's qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience. Protocos currently offers healthcare coverage, annual incentive program, retirement benefits and a broad range of other benefits. Compensation and benefits information is based on Protocos' good faith estimate as of the date of publication and may be modified in the future.
