Research Associate - Protein Production

Helix BioStructures, LLC (HBS) is a contract research organization (CRO) based in Indianapolis, Indiana, providing early drug discovery services to the biopharmaceutical industry. HBS maintains a full suite of services that encompass chemical & structural analysis, protein production, computational modeling, and design. HBS’s core and most popular services are structural biology imaging techniques: X-ray Crystallography and Cryo-EM. HBS was founded in 2018 and has grown considerably. We are looking to add a Research Associate to independently execute protein expression, purification, and characterization workflows for client projects in our Indianapolis-based lab.

Main Responsibilities

This research associate will independently execute protein expression, purification, and biophysical characterization workflows in support of client projects, including preparing reagents, buffers, and media as needed for assigned experiments. The associate will collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data, troubleshoot routine technical issues, and communicate results to project managers. The associate will also perform routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment, maintain detailed and accurate documentation of experimental procedures and results, and contribute to a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.

Highly desirable hands-on experiences include:

(a) Hands-on experience independently running protein expression and/or purification (academic or industrial), such as FPLC-based chromatography.

(b) Working knowledge of core wet-lab fundamentals, including buffer/media preparation, pipetting and aseptic technique, SDS-PAGE, and basic chromatography.

In this role, the research associate will independently manage protein production workstreams for client projects spanning structure-based drug discovery, antibody discovery, and protein engineering. Accordingly, a solid foundation in laboratory fundamentals, strong attention to detail, and the ability to troubleshoot independently are essential. The successful candidate will take ownership of assigned projects, manage multiple projects in parallel, and collaborate with senior scientists and other team members in a fast-paced, collaborative CRO environment.

Additional Responsibilities

- Independently plan and execute protein expression and purification runs to meet client project timelines and specifications.

- Prepare laboratory reagents, buffers, and media as needed to support assigned experiments, and perform routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment.

- Prepare detailed and accurate documentation of laboratory procedures, observations, and results.

- Provide general laboratory support, including inventory management and ordering supplies.

- Participate in team meetings and contribute to discussions on project progress and improvements.

Required Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, biology, or a related field, with 1–5 years of hands-on laboratory experience.

- Hands-on experience independently performing recombinant protein expression and/or purification (academic or industrial) is required.

- Familiarity with fundamental wet-lab techniques such as pipetting, solution and buffer preparation, SDS-PAGE, and basic chromatography.

- Strong attention to detail with accurate and organized record-keeping.

- Ability to follow established protocols and adhere to laboratory safety procedures.

- Good written and oral communication skills and a willingness to learn new techniques.

Additional qualifications

- Hands-on experience with recombinant protein expression and/or purification in bacterial, insect, or mammalian systems.

- Exposure to biophysical or analytical techniques (e.g., size-exclusion chromatography, SDS-PAGE, TSA, UV/Vis spectroscopy).

- Experience with laboratory inventory, LIMS, or electronic lab notebook (ELN) systems.

- Exposure to structural biology (X-ray crystallography or Cryo-EM) is a plus but not required.

- Excellent organizational and time-management skills.

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

- Eagerness to take on new challenges and learn on the job.

Location

This position is based in Indianapolis, Indiana, and does NOT offer a hybrid option. Interaction with external service vendors is also expected. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States; Helix BioStructures does NOT provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Physical Requirements

Able to lift 30 lb objects with dimensions 30 inches in height and 18 inches in width.

Able to visualize microscopic objects under microscopes.

Non-standard work schedule, travel, and lab safety

Able to adhere to safe work practices and perform lab work with appropriate personal protective equipment, such as but not limited to safety goggles, facial mask, gloves, lab coat/ protective gowning, and closed-toe shoes. Able to work at flexible hours occasionally when performing time-sensitive experiments.

Other job details

- Eligible for Relocation Package

- Competitive Salary + annual bonus

- Retirement (matching 401K)

- Health/Dental/Vision Insurance

- Company Apple Computer

Helix BioStructures, LLC is an equal opportunity employer, and we embrace the increasingly diverse world around us. Helix BioStructures, LLC prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, marital status, and veteran status.