Senior Research Associate - Biology Job description: The drug discovery and development team at Protagonist Therapeutics is seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Associate for a hands-on lab position with great career advancement potential. The individual is expected to perform cell-based, biochemical, molecular and functional assays, work independently and collaboratively in support of multiple research programs, and possess excellent verbal and written communication skills. Key responsibilities: * Develop, implement and conduct cell-based reporter screening assays, and in vitro biochemical assays, including but not limited to ELISA and flow cytometry-based assays * Develop & conduct assays for biomarker analysis of tissue/serum samples from pre-clinical studies in animal models, using ELISA, MSD, qPCR, Westerns etc. * Develop cell lines, develop & conduct assays with primary cells isolated from whole blood, bone marrow etc. from pre-clinical models * Analyze, interpret, summarize and communicate scientific data to the project teams in a timely manner * Maintain cell lines related to the project * Establish and maintain proper reagent & sample inventories, and databases * Ensure reagents, instruments, processes are up-to-date and meet the industry standard * Lead and/or assist in writing and revising technical documents including testing protocols and data reports Requirements: * M.S./B.S. in cell biology, molecular biology, immunology or related fields * Industry relevant laboratory experience of 3-4years (with BS) or ~2-3year (with MS) * Proficiency in the following techniques: cell-based screening assays, maintaining cells lines, handling of tissue samples from pre-clinical models, working with primary cells, ELISA, flow cytometry, and experience in molecular biology techniques is preferred * Proficiency with software such as GraphPad Prism, flow cytometry plots, Microsoft Office etc., for data analysis and figure generation and data upload * Attention to detail with excellent organizational, experimental data recording and time management skills * Ability to precisely follow SOPs, develop and improve new skillsets and knowledge necessary to successfully support assigned projects * Capability to work independently and simultaneously on multiple tasks * Ability to interact effectively with team members and function collaboratively in a highly productive, dynamic and fast-paced environment * Strong verbal and written communication skills The base pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $110,000 and $120,000 / year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Protagonist Therapeutics is a discovery through late-stage development biopharmaceutical company. Two novel peptides, icotrokinra and rusfertide, derived from Protagonist's proprietary discovery platform are currently in advanced Phase 3 clinical development, with New Drug Application submissions to the FDA expected in 2025. Icotrokinra (JNJ-2113) is a first-in-class investigational targeted oral peptide that selectively blocks the Interleukin-23 receptor ("IL-23R") which is licensed to Janssen Biotech, Inc., a Johnson & Johnson company. Following icotrokinra's joint discovery by Protagonist and Johnson & Johnson scientists pursuant to the companies' IL-23R collaboration, Protagonist was primarily responsible for development of icotrokinra through Phase 1, with Johnson & Johnson assuming responsibility for development in Phase 2 and beyond. Rusfertide, a mimetic of the natural hormone hepcidin, is currently in Phase 3 development for the rare blood disorder polycythemia vera (PV). Rusfertide is being co-developed and will be co-commercialized with Takeda Pharmaceuticals pursuant to a worldwide collaboration and license agreement entered into in 2024 under which the Company remains primarily responsible for development through NDA filing. The Company also has a number of pre-clinical stage oral drug discovery programs addressing clinically and commercially validated targets, including the IL-17 oral peptide antagonist PN-881, an oral hepcidin program, and an oral obesity program.