Associate Scientist - Protein Engineering

About Enlaza Therapeutics
For a complete understanding of this opportunity, and what will be required to be a successful applicant, read on.
Enlaza Therapeutics is a privately held, well-funded biotechnology company based in San Diego, California. We are advancing a novel synthetic biology platform, War-Lock™, to develop a new class of biologic therapeutics capable of site-specific covalent engagement of disease targets. This innovative approach has enabled a growing pipeline of first-in-class therapeutic candidates for cancer and other serious diseases. At Enlaza, we are passionate about translating cutting-edge science into transformative medicines for patients. We foster a highly collaborative, fast-paced, and intellectually stimulating environment where team members are empowered to contribute, learn, and grow. Role Description: Enlaza Therapeutics is seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist, Protein Engineering, to support our antibody and protein engineering programs. Reporting to the Principal Scientist of Protein Engineering, this laboratory-based role will contribute to the discovery, characterization, optimization, and advancement of therapeutic antibody and VHH candidates across multiple pipeline programs. This position is ideal for a hands-on experimental scientist who enjoys executing high-quality laboratory work, analyzing data, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams. The successful candidate will play a key role in molecular cloning, recombinant protein production, purification, and biochemical characterization, while gaining exposure to advanced protein engineering and biophysical characterization techniques. The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, eager to learn, and thrives in a dynamic biotechnology environment. Prior experience with biophysical characterization techniques such as bio-layer interferometry (BLI) is preferred but not required. We are committed to training talented scientists who demonstrate strong scientific fundamentals and a desire to expand their technical expertise. This is a full-time, onsite laboratory position based at our headquarters in San Diego, California. Responsibilities: Design, execute, and analyze experiments using molecular biology and protein engineering techniques, including molecular cloning, mutagenesis, transformation, recombinant protein expression, purification, and characterization. Support antibody and VHH engineering efforts, including affinity maturation, humanization, developability improvement, sequence optimization, and mitigation of molecular liabilities. Produce and characterize recombinant proteins from bacterial expression systems, including construct preparation, expression screening, purification, and analytical assessment. Perform protein characterization assays, including SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, protein concentration determination, and other biochemical and biophysical analyses. Assist in the evaluation and advancement of screening hits and lead molecules through sample preparation and characterization studies such as BLI, kinetic analysis, epitope binning, and developability assessment. Analyze, interpret, document, and communicate experimental results to project teams and stakeholders. Maintain accurate, complete, and well-organized experimental records in electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) and data management systems. Collaborate closely with scientists across protein sciences, discovery biology, computational biology, analytical sciences, and translational research functions. Contribute to laboratory organization, inventory management, equipment maintenance, and compliance with company procedures and safety practices. Required Skills and Experience: BS/MS in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, Protein Sciences, Protein Engineering, Structural Biology, or a related scientific discipline with 5+ years (BS) or 3+ years (MS) of relevant industry or academic laboratory experience. Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques, including construct design, molecular cloning, mutagenesis, bacterial transformation, and plasmid preparation. Experience with recombinant protein expression and purification from E. coli , protein quantification, SDS-PAGE, and Western blotting. Strong organizational skills with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple experiments and priorities simultaneously. Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to clearly present scientific findings in group meetings. Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced, and multidisciplinary research environment. Preferred Qualifications: Experience using sequence analysis and molecular biology software such as Geneious, Benchling, SnapGene, or equivalent platforms. Experience with recombinant antibody, VHH, or other biologic therapeutics discovery and characterization workflows. Experience with biophysical characterization methods such as BLI (Octet), SPR, SEC, DSF, or related assays. Familiarity with developability assessment and lead optimization strategies for therapeutic proteins. Experience maintaining electronic laboratory notebooks and laboratory data management systems. Compensation: In addition to a competitive compensation package with stock options, the company also offers a comprehensive benefits package for our employees and their families, which includes medical, dental, vision, and supplemental disability insurance. xzbcwsv Job Type: Full-time Annual Salary: $105,000 – 140,000 Supplemental Pay Types: Annual Bonus: 10% Equity Benefits: 401(k) Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible schedule Flexible spending account Flexible vacation Health insurance Life insurance Parental leave Paid holidays Relocation assistance (if eligible) Retirement plan Vision insurance Year-end shutdown Enlaza Therapeutics is an equal opportunity employer committed to scientific excellence, innovation, and improving the lives of patients through transformative medicines.