Principal or Senior Principal Scientist, Protein Drug Discovery

Principal or Senior Principal Scientist – Protein Drug Discovery Lead protein drug discovery for next‑generation biologics at Zealand Pharma, establishing capabilities and teams from early discovery through lead‑candidate selection. The role is part of the new Molecular Platform Development unit in Cambridge, Massachusetts, focused on advancing diverse drug modalities for metabolic disease. Responsibilities Define and lead protein drug discovery strategy aligned with Zealand Pharma’s metabolic disease portfolio and long‑term objectives. Drive protein discovery programs from idea through lead‑candidate selection, partnering closely with cross‑functional stakeholders and governance. Provide scientific leadership across therapeutic protein modalities (antibodies, bispecifics, VHHs, mini‑proteins, fusions, hybrids, and bioconjugates with other proteins, peptides, or synthetic payloads). Guide protein engineering, developability assessment, and structure–function optimization to enable high‑quality candidate progression. Establish and grow discovery biologics platform capabilities within the Molecular Platform Development center, including fit‑for‑purpose automation and display technologies to improve reliability, data quality, and throughput. Build internal and external innovation by mentoring and recruiting talent and forming strategic collaborations with academic, biotech, and CRO partners. Qualifications PhD in Protein Science, Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Biophysics, Bioengineering, or a related field (postdoctoral training preferred). 6+ years of relevant post‑degree experience (Principal) or 8+ years (Senior Principal) in protein drug discovery. Demonstrated track record advancing projects from concept to clinical development, evidenced by inventorship on patents and high‑impact peer‑reviewed publications. Deep expertise in protein engineering and structure‑informed design across multiple formats (mAbs, bispecifics, VHHs, mini‑proteins, fusions, and bioconjugates). Experience with high‑throughput expression, purification, analytical characterization, and biophysical/biochemical developability assessment. Hands‑on knowledge of hit‑finding and affinity maturation approaches (e.g., phage and/or yeast display) and ability to interpret and apply computational modeling/design insights in experimental decision‑making. Reporting & Team The role reports to the Head of Molecular Platform Development and partners closely with computational research, chemistry, biology, translational research, pharmacology, bioanalysis, and CMC teams to deliver high‑quality protein therapeutics for metabolic disease. Compensation Anticipated base pay range: $220,000 – $270,000. This position is part of a diverse, inclusive work environment and is open to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status. #J-18808-Ljbffr Zealand Pharma U.S., Inc.