Principal Scientist, Protein Production – Engineering

Disc Medicine

Principal Scientist leading biologics discovery and protein engineering at Disc Medicine. Focused on developing treatments for serious hematologic diseases through innovative research.

Posted 7/16/2026full-timeWatertown • Massachusetts • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $166,000 - $203,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in biologics discovery and protein engineering, with a strong focus on protein characterization and the application of computational and structural biology tools. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and communicate effectively in a dynamic research environment.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Ph.D. In BiochemistryBiologics DiscoveryProtein EngineeringProtein CharacterizationComputational Biology Tools

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Protein ProductionAssay DevelopmentData InterpretationExperimental Strategy DesignAffinity CharacterizationStability CharacterizationDevelopability AssessmentFusion ProteinsMulti-Specific AntibodiesTech Transfer

Soft Skills

Critical ThinkingAnalytical SkillsProblem-SolvingCommunication SkillsCollaboration

Industry Keywords

BiotechnologyPharmaceutical ResearchContract Research OrganizationsScientific LeadershipInnovation Portfolio

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provide scientific leadership in the planning, execution, and data interpretation across multiple biologics discovery programs.
Lead protein engineering strategies for various antigens and biologics (antibodies and multi-specifics) using experimental, computational and structural biology tools
Design and oversee the protein production and detailed characterization processes to support projects across the Innovation portfolio
Drive early-stage developability assessment workflows of biologics
Support mechanisms of action studies through assay development
Support the selection of lead molecules to advance pipeline programs.
Critically evaluate scientific literature, synthesize novel hypotheses and design and integrate rigorous experimental strategies to test them.
Communicate project progress and key findings effectively in cross-functional meetings, ensuring alignment with timelines in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Foster a collaborative and accountable team culture, with a strong emphasis on scientific excellence and continuous improvement.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Protein engineering, or a related field.
10 -12 years of related work experience with at least 5 years of experience working within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical research industry.
Extensive experience in biologics discovery and protein sciences, including fusion proteins and multi-specific antibodies
Deep expertise in the characterization of protein structure and function (affinity, stability, developability, etc.)
Strong background in the use of computational and structural biology tools for protein design is a plus.
Tech transfer knowledge from Research to Development teams is a plus
Demonstrated ability to think critically and independently, propose innovative scientific approaches, and apply strong analytical and problem-solving skills to complex biological questions.
Experience working with contract research organizations (CROs) is preferred.
Outstanding communication skills—both written and verbal—with the ability to thrive within a collaborative work environment.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive benefits
Competitive compensation packages
Flexible work environment