Scientist II/Senior Scientist, Protein Science

About Hexagon Bio:

Hexagon Bio leverages a genomics-based platform and understanding of natural product evolution to develop next-generation ADCs with novel payloads for cancer. We use data science, genomics, machine learning, synthetic biology, and automation to discover potent, evolutionarily refined small molecules from microbial genomes, and apply medicinal chemistry to optimize these molecules into truly transformative medicines.

Location: Menlo Park, CA

Job description:

We are seeking a Scientist / Sr. Scientist to join the Protein Science team at our Menlo Park HQ. As a member of the Protein Science Team, you will focus on our antibody production and characterization efforts and be part of a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary drug-development team leveraging the discovery of novel natural products for the next-generation of ADC therapies. You will support engineering/design, expression, purification and characterization of antibodies as well as antibody drug conjugates that deliver new drugs to overcome limitations of current cancer treatments and impact patient outcomes. Your role will be instrumental in delivering high-quality molecules to support in vitro and in vivo studies. You will seek solutions to scale antibody production capacity and streamline throughput and timelines for material generation. We are seeking innovative team members inspired by our mission to work collaboratively in building the next-generation drug company. Candidates should demonstrate scientific curiosity, efficient time management, excellent organizational and communication skills, and a passion for science.

The role is laboratory-based.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive in-house protein/antibody production, including:
• Design and construction of expression vectors.
• Maintain mammalian cell culture systems (HEK293, CHO), perform and optimize transient transfections for protein/antibody production.
• Perform batch and FPLC based purifications (Affinity, IEX, SEC, and other chromatography-based methods) of monoclonal, bispecific and other engineered antibody formats. Maintain the AKTA systems to ensure endotoxin-free.
• Develop and optimize purification and analytical characterization methods and protocols for antibodies and antibody drug-conjugates to support in vitro and in vivo studies.
• Oversee external production efforts by CRO partners.
• Ensure the highest standard of quality in antibody and antibody drug-conjugate production and batch records.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks, analyze experimental data and interpret results to guide decision-making processes.
• Proactively identify workflow limitations and implement solutions.
• Collaborate with a diverse team to answer scientific questions and deliver quality and timely findings in support of therapeutic candidate advancement.
• Effectively communicate findings and interpretation of results.
• Comply with company health and safety policies and general laboratory practices.

Qualifications:

• Scientist II: Bachelor or Master Degree in protein sciences or relevant field with > 15 years hands-on industry experience in protein science is required.
• Sr. Scientist: PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Immunology, or a related field with > 8 years industry experience in protein science or antibody / protein engineering.
• Thorough understanding of antibody structure and protein biochemistry best practices.
• Demonstrated experience with molecular biology techniques, including DNA construct design, PCR, DNA purification and molecular cloning is required.
• Demonstrated experience with sterile technique and suspension cell culture for protein production is required.
• Demonstrated expertise with AKTA systems and Unicorn software is required.
• Significant knowledge and hands-on experience in analytical methods (such as HPLC, aSEC, IEX, HIC, LCMS, SDS-PAGE, ce-SDS, ce-IEF, HCP and endotoxin detection) is required.
• Experience with gram scale antibody production and purification and/or experience with antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) technologies, including familiarity with linker-payload strategies, conjugation methods, and biophysical and functional evaluation of ADCs is highly desired.
• Experience with target binding assays, developability assessments and/or CRO management is a plus.
• Strong desire to continue seeking new technological innovations supporting laboratory work.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot experiments and propose innovative solutions.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
• Self-motivation, initiative and boldness to dive into a fast-paced new startup.

What We Offer:

• A flexible and dynamic work environment where you pave your own path, Hexagon cultivates employees' unique strengths at all levels and provides mobility across departments.
• “All Hands Meetings” provide an opportunity to share company and team updates. These meetings are rooted in our value of transparency. They are designed to foster a culture of collaboration, curiosity, and open communication.
• Rapid career advancement for driven performers.
• Access to scientific conferences all over the country throughout the year.
• A range of amenities, courtesy of the Menlo Park Labs business park, including shuttle, gym, rock-climbing wall, pool, sports courts, cafe, bike lockers, and free EV charging stations.
• Opportunities to engage with the Hexagon community through team-building events like our monthly Hexagon Happy Hour and holiday parties.

Additional Information:

The salary range is dependent on the level of experience. The salary range for this position is $140,000 - $165,000  Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position across California locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

Hexagon Bio is an equal opportunity employer and committed to a diverse workplace. All applicants will be considered equally without regard to race, color, ethnicity, veteran status, religion, national origin, marital status, political affiliation, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, membership in an organization, or any other non-merit factors

Note to External Recruiters: Submission of unsolicited resumes prior to an agreement set in place does not create any implied obligation.