Scientist 3, mRNA Display, Peptide Therapeutics

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The Opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative Scientist to contribute to cutting-edge efforts in macrocyclic peptide discovery, with a strong focus on advancing our mRNA display platform. This role is ideal for a technically skilled and creative individual with deep expertise in peptide chemistry, molecular biology, and display technologies who is passionate about advancing new therapeutic modalities. The successful candidate will work closely with cross-functional teams to design, execute, and optimize discovery workflows and play a key role in the development of next-generation peptide therapeutics.

• Design and perform mRNA display selections for peptide discovery against therapeutic targets.

• Construct and screen diverse peptide libraries to identify high-affinity binders with favorable drug-like properties.

• Oversee high-throughput automation systems to enhance mRNA display selection processes, driving greater experimental efficiency and higher data quality.

• Lead continuous innovation in mRNA display platforms by advancing library design, selection strategies, and downstream analyses to identify drug-like peptides with optimal properties.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams in biology, chemistry, and data science to advance peptide hits toward optimized leads.

• Analyze selection and screening data, and contribute to SAR studies to improve potency, permeability, and bioavailability.

• Support ongoing optimization of platform technologies, including improvements in selection strategies, library design, and downstream analysis.

• Communicate scientific findings and project progress in internal meetings and contribute to publications and patent filings.

• Participate in collaborations with external partners and internal stakeholders to support the advancement of discovery programs.

Who You Are

• Ph.D. in Bioorganic Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related field, with demonstrated expertise in peptide chemistry, mRNA display, and molecular biology.

• 3-5 years of postdoctoral or industry experience in peptide drug discovery or related field, ideally within a biotechnology or pharmaceutical environment.

• Hands-on experience with mRNA display, peptide library design, and screening technologies.

• Familiarity with structure-activity relationships, and basic knowledge of computational modeling and data interpretation tools.

• Excellent organizational and communication skills with a strong ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams.

Technical Expertise

• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques including mRNA or phage display, PCR, in vitro transcription/translation, and selection workflows.

• Experience in macrocyclic peptide library generation, screening, and hit identification.

• Knowledge of peptide synthesis techniques, analytical characterization (e.g., LC-MS), and bioassays.

• Ability to contribute to structure-based optimization of peptides and apply basic computational tools for structure prediction and property assessment.

Preferred

• Experience in functional assay development and mammalian cell-based systems is a plus.

• Familiarity with automation platforms for high-throughput screening is desirable.

• A history of scientific excellence demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications, patents, and conference presentations

Relocation benefits are available for this posting.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of California is $101,400 - $188,200. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Benefits

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Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

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