Biocatalyst/Protein Engineer

The InstituteThe 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 which is supported both by a flexible and efficient administration and by high-end and innovative technologies.In April 2021, the Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) received the renewal of the 'HR Excellence in Research' Award from the European Commission. This is a recognition of the Institute's commitment to developing an HR Strategy for Researchers, designed to bring the practices and procedures in line with the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.Please, check out our Recruitment Policy: CRG Recruitment PolicyThe RoleWe 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 LabThe 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 ExperienceMust 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.Fluency in English and strong communication skills.Desirable but Not Required:Experience with robotic liquid-handling platforms for high-throughput workflows and automation.Willingness to learn or stay updated on machine learning methods for protein engineering and design.Education and TrainingYou hold or are about to defend a PhD in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field.LanguagesYou are proficient in English.Technical SkillsAdvanced 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.CompetencesA 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. Effective communication skills.The Offer – Working ConditionsContract 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 for its employees and offers an extended vacation period and the possibility to benefit from flexible working hours.Application ProcedureAll applications must include:A motivation letter addressed to Dr. Noelia Ferruz.A complete CV including contact details.Contact details of two referees.All applications must be addressed to Dr. Noelia Ferruz and be submitted online on the CRG Career site - CRG Career Site.Selection ProcessPre-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.Suggestions: The CRG believes in ongoing improvement and promotes a culture of feedback. This is one of the reasons we have in place, at your disposal as a candidate, a mechanism to gather your suggestions/complaints concerning your candidate experience in our recruitment processes. Your feedback really matters to us in our aim at creating a positive candidate journey. You can make a difference and help us improve by letting us know your suggestions through the following form: Feedback Form.
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