The Institute
The Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) is an international biomedical research institute of excellence, based in Barcelona, Spain, with more than 400 scientists from 44 countries. The CRG is composed of an interdisciplinary, motivated and creative scientific team supported by a flexible and efficient administration and high-end, innovative technologies.
We are seeking a Biocatalyst, Biochemist, or Protein Engineer to lead the experimental testing and optimization of enzymes generated by our AI models. The candidate will be responsible for high-throughput screening and directed evolution approaches to manage and evaluate thousands of enzymes efficiently. This role is vital to experimentally validate in a high-performance fashion the predictions made by our AI models, and the feedback will be crucial to improve the models over time. The candidate will learn cutting-edge AI techniques and will focus on the engineering of biotechnologically relevant enzymes.
About the Lab
The candidate will join an interdisciplinary research group at the forefront of AI-driven protein design and engineering. The team is highly collaborative, integrating computational scientists, experimental biologists, and biotechnologists to push the boundaries of synthetic biology and protein engineering.
Whom Would We Like to Hire?
Professional Experience
Must Have
* 3+ years of experience in protein engineering, specifically in the testing of enzyme variants.
* Wide experience in the implementation and screening of enzyme activity assays.
* Familiarity with directed evolution techniques and (ultra)-high throughput techniques.
* Fluent in English with strong communication skills.
Desirable but Not Required / Nice to Have
* Experience with robotic liquid-handling platforms for high-throughput workflows and automation.
* Willingness to learn or constantly hear about machine learning methods for protein engineering and design.
Education and Training
You hold or are about to defend a PhD in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field.
Languages
You are proficient in English.
Technical Skills
* Advanced skills in protein engineering techniques, such as mutagenesis, cell-free systems, and/or (ultra-) high-throughput assays.
* Ability to independently develop protocols to screen the activity, selectivity, and thermodynamics of enzyme variants.
* Experience automating systems for handling and screening thousands of protein variants.
Competences
A passion for working in a high-paced, AI-driven research environment and the willingness to adapt and implement cutting-edge technologies. Highly developed organizational skills to manage high-throughput experimental workflows and data, capable of working at agile paces. Strong problem-solving abilities, with a proactive and innovative mindset.
The Offer – Working Conditions
Contract Duration: 3 years, with the possibility of extension to 5.
Estimated Annual Gross Salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales.
Target Start Date: January 2025 (but flexible).
We provide a highly stimulating environment with state-of-the-art infrastructures and unique professional career development opportunities. To check out our training and development portfolio, please visit our website in the training section.
We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcome applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
The CRG is committed to reconciling work and family life of its employees and offers an extended vacation period and the possibility to benefit from flexible working hours.
Application Procedure
All applications must include:
* A motivation letter addressed to Dr. Noelia Ferruz.
* Contact details of two referees.
All applications must be addressed to Dr. Noelia Ferruz and be submitted online through the "Apply" button below.
Selection Process
Pre-selection: The pre-selection process will be based on qualifications and expertise reflected in the candidates' CVs. It will be merit-based.
Interview: Preselected candidates will be interviewed by the Hiring Manager of the position and a selection panel if required.
Offer Letter: Once the successful candidate is identified, the People department will send a Job Offer, specifying the start day, salary, working conditions, among other important details.
Deadline: Please submit your application by November 23rd, 2024.
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