Senior Scientist, Protein Engineering

Company Overview

SystImmune is a leading and well-funded clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company located in Bothell, WA and Princeton, NJ. It specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments using its established drug development platforms, focusing on bi-specific, multi-specific antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). SystImmune has multiple assets in various stages of clinical trials for solid tumor and hematologic indications. Alongside ongoing clinical trials, SystImmune has a robust preclinical pipeline of potential cancer therapeutics in the discover and IND-enabling stages, representing cutting-edge biologics development. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company's success.

Job Summary

SystImmune is seeking a Senior Scientist to join our Protein Engineering group and help advance novel therapeutic antibodies, including bi-specific and multi-specific antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), through discovery and into development. This is a scientist role with a strong emphasis on data analysis and drug development: you will design and interpret experiments, manage project timelines, and translate results into decisions that move programs forward.

The ideal candidate has deep, hands‑on antibody engineering expertise gained in industry, a high-level understanding of the responsibilities of the role, and the ability to work independently to meet high-demand deadlines. The candidate keeps current with emerging scientific techniques, brings competency in AI/ML and computational methods, and is expected to eventually supervise research associates.

This is a full-time onsite position in Bothell, WA and will require some evening meetings.

Key Responsibilities

Scientific Leadership and Project Management

• Lead and advance target projects: conduct literature reviews, coordinate cross-functional teams, set and manage project timelines, and compile comprehensive data reports
• Apply deep antibody engineering expertise to the design, optimization, and characterization of therapeutic antibody candidates, including bi-specific and multi-specific formats
• Stay current with novel scientific techniques and technologies, and evaluate and introduce state-of-the-art approaches that accelerate project timelines and drive impactful discoveries
• Work independently and prioritize effectively to meet high-demand deadlines in support of multiple drug development programs

Data Analysis and Drug Development

• Contribute scientific input to project planning and drug development strategy in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams
• Apply computational, statistical, and programming tools to analyze data and support candidate selection

Experimental Expertise

• Direct and perform protein purification (affinity, ion-exchange, and size-exclusion chromatography on FPLC systems) and protein analytics (HPLC, BLI/SPR for protein-protein interactions, and DLS/SLS thermal melts for stability)
• Oversee and perform mammalian expression and cell culture
• Fluent in molecular biology techniques such as Gibson and Golden Gate Assemblies, PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, and plasmid preparation

AI/ML and Computational Methods

• Apply AI/ML and computational approaches to protein engineering and data analysis workflows
• Use AI-assisted coding tools and coding agents, and evaluate AI agents, to improve the speed and quality of analysis and scientific work

Team Leadership and Lab Management

• Mentor junior scientists and research associates, and over time supervise research associates, fostering a culture of collaboration and scientific excellence
• Maintain accurate records in accordance with company standards (including the laboratory information management system), ensure safety compliance, and support lab organization and operations

Qualifications

• PhD in biochemistry, biophysics, molecular biology, structural biology, cell biology, or a related field
• 5+ years of industry experience is required
• Strong understanding of antibody engineering
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and meet high-demand deadlines, and to manage project timelines
• Strong data analysis skills and a track record of contributing to drug development
• Expertise in protein purification and handling; strong background in molecular biology, structural biology, biophysics, and biochemistry
• Competency in AI/ML and computational skills, including familiarity with AI agents and AI-assisted coding tools and coding agents
• Ability to maintain records within a laboratory information management system (LIMS), and to review and synthesize recent relevant literature
• Strong publication record of multiple high-impact papers in relevant fields

Preferred

• Experience with mammalian expression systems
• Prior experience mentoring or supervising laboratory staff

Compensation and Benefits

The expected base salary range for this position is $90,000 - $140,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to a candidate’s level, qualifications, experience, and skills.

While most offers typically fall within the low to mid-point of the range, we may extend an offer toward the higher end for exceptional candidates whose background and expertise exceeds the requirements of the role.

SystImmune offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 100% paid employee premiums for medical/dental/vision, also STD, LTD, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match of up to 3% and a vesting schedule of only 5 years, 15 PTO days per year, sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays and MORE.

SystImmune is a leading and well-funded biotech company with a bright future.

SystImmune is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome diverse talent and encourage all qualified applicants to apply.