Scientist – Enzyme Assay Development and Testing

Arzeda is solving some of today’s hardest and most meaningful problems – from food and nutrition to sustainable materials and homecare – by designing proteins that have the limitless potential to change everyone’s daily life. Our team has developed a proven technology platform that merges computational protein design, machine learning, and synthetic biology tools to produce proteins, enzymes, and bio-based processes more efficiently than Mother Nature. A deep tech, mission-driven company, we are passionate about our mission to design novel proteins and products that enhance our lives and protect our planet. At Arzeda, we value a strong desire to learn, innovate and be continuously challenged.

We are seeking a detail-oriented Scientist to join our highly collaborative Assay Development and Testing team. You will play a critical role in the continued development of our enzyme engineering platform at Arzeda to rapidly screen and optimize enzyme functions. Using your deep knowledge of enzymology, including enzyme kinetics, protein characterization, analytical biochemistry, and HT-assay development and troubleshooting you will contribute to impactful projects across the company. Arzeda is located in Seattle, Washington. Nestled among the historic and artistic neighborhoods of Ballard, Fremont and Queen Anne, you'll find the right balance of activities and relaxation. Whether you're indulging your inner foodie at one of many unique restaurants, drinking a craft beverage after a day at the beach, or enjoying a picturesque walk through the Sunday Market, you'll be proud to call Seattle your home.

Responsibilities:

• Develop robust high throughput enzyme assays for bioconversions.
• Perform cell-free expression, and high-throughput or mid-scale protein preparation, as needed.
• Evaluate enzyme performance using assays, including product quantification.
• Work with automation and database/LIMS experts, the candidate will be expected to contribute to the implementation of robust assay as well as data analysis workflows.
• Develop, optimize, and perform laboratory SOPs.
• Interface with upstream (e.g., Protein Design, Strain Design, and Genetic Design-Build teams) and downstream teams and (Fermentation and Downstream Processing teams) for efficient data exchange and transfer of materials.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Biocatalysis, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Chemistry or other related field, or 4+ years of experience in a Masters or industry role.
• In-depth knowledge and hands-on experience with enzyme characterization.
• Experience developing enzyme assays, especially for biocatalysis or bioconversions.
• Understanding of redox chemistry and thermodynamics.
• Understanding of HPLC or LC/MS for small molecules.
• Experience evaluating data sets, putting together reports, and presenting findings and/or results from data analysis.
• Desire to communicate openly within a team and be receptive to feedback and learning opportunities.
• Adaptable to changing plans as needed to meet goals.

Nice-to-haves (not required, but team members who do well here happily grow in these areas):

• Python and/or R
• Hands-on experience with automation equipment

Arzeda compensation and benefits include:

• Comprehensive compensation package, to include equity
• Paid time off; company-observed holidays to include a company paid holiday closure between Dec 25 and Jan 1; and paid medical/family leave
• Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance to include options for Health Savings Accounts
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Commuter benefits

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Arzeda is an equal opportunity employer promoting diversity and inclusion in the workspace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding), genetic information, taking or requesting statutorily protected leave, or any other basis protected by law. Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.