Associate Scientist, Protein Science

About Alloy Therapeutics

Alloy Therapeutics is a global biotechnology ecosystem dedicated to supporting the scientific community in developing therapeutic biologics. Through partnerships and shared tools, they provide affordable, non-exclusive access to foundational resources across academia, biotech, and pharma sectors. Their model combines centralized capabilities with independent divisions, fostering a culture of accountability, trust, and collaboration while maintaining a startup environment.

Role Overview

As an Associate Scientist in Protein Science located in Waltham, MA, you will play a key role in supporting antibody discovery by executing critical protein science workflows. Your tasks include mammalian transient transfections, recombinant DNA cloning, immunogen design, protein expression and purification, and quality control. You will also work to optimize protocols, manage multiple projects, and collaborate across teams in a dynamic environment that values rigor, curiosity, and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Conduct small- to large-scale transient transfections in mammalian cell lines such as CHO for biologics production.
• Manage multiple cell culture lines independently, ensuring proper tissue culture techniques.
• Optimize transfection protocols to enhance efficiency, cell viability, and protein yield.
• Perform recombinant DNA workflows including PCR, Gibson assembly, plasmid amplification, and cloning.
• Engineer antibody constructs to produce multi-specific antibody candidates.
• Support protein purification using AKTA chromatography systems including affinity, ion exchange, and size exclusion methods.
• Carry out quality control assessments like aSEC, CE-SDS, SDS-PAGE, and LAL testing.
• Maintain detailed records of experiments and results in electronic laboratory notebooks compliant with industry standards.
• Coordinate project handoffs to ensure smooth transitions and sustained workflow across teams.
• Communicate data and findings clearly in meetings to support project progress.
• Prioritize and execute project tasks in alignment with team goals and timelines.
• Ensure laboratory organization and maintain compliance with safety regulations.

Qualifications

• MS degree with 2+ years or BS degree with 4+ years of hands-on research in molecular biology or related fields like cell biology, biochemistry, or immunology.
• Extensive experience with transient expression of antibodies using mammalian systems, preferably CHO, at scales ranging from high throughput to multi-liter.
• In-depth knowledge of transfection methods such as PEI, lipofectamine, or electroporation, including optimization of efficiency and viability.
• Proficiency in managing high-density suspension cell cultures and scaling up cultures from plates and flasks to bioreactors.
• Familiarity with cell health monitoring instruments like Vi-CELL or equivalents.
• Strong expertise in recombinant DNA techniques: PCR, cloning, restriction digestion, gel analysis, and plasmid prep at various scales.
• Experience designing monoclonal, bispecific, and multispecific antibody constructs.
• Excellent organizational abilities to prioritize and juggle multiple projects independently.
• Competence in maintaining electronic lab notebooks according to industry standards; knowledge of LIMS is advantageous.
• Effective communication skills and adaptability within a collaborative, fast-paced team environment.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in generating stable cell lines and vector engineering.
• Knowledge of protein purification techniques including affinity and size-exclusion chromatography.
• Understanding of bioanalytical methods for assessing protein titer, yield, and purity.

Employee Support and Benefits

• Competitive salary range: $93,000 to $110,000 per year, plus equity compensation.
• 401(k) plan with company matching contributions.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with full premium and deductible support.
• Company-paid short- and long-term disability, life insurance, and paid parental leave.
• Family planning assistance up to $45,000 for treatments such as IVF, adoption, and surrogacy.
• Unlimited paid time off and flexible scheduling options.
• Annual stipend for continuing education with tailored professional development plans.
• Employee wellness programs and extensive assistance resources including mental health support.

Work Culture and Other Details

The organization emphasizes mentorship through apprenticeship and appreciates the necessity of in-person work for lab-based roles, valuing teamwork and flexibility accordingly. It is an equal opportunity employer committed to accommodating applicants with disabilities. The position is fully onsite at Waltham, MA.