Principal Scientist, AI Protein Sciences (Discovery Platforms & Automation)

SystImmune is a leading and well‑funded clinical‑stage biopharmaceutical company located in Redmond, WA and Princeton, NJ. It specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments using its established drug‑development platforms, focusing on bi‑specific, multi‑specific antibodies, and antibody‑drug conjugates (ADCs). SystImmune has multiple assets in various stages of clinical trials for solid tumor and hematologic indications, and a robust preclinical pipeline of potential cancer therapeutics in the discover and IND‑enabling stages. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success. SystImmune is seeking a Principal Scientist to lead the design, implementation, and ownership of a next‑generation automated protein sciences platform supporting biologics discovery. This role will focus on building scalable capabilities in cell‑free protein expression, purification, high‑throughput binding characterization, sample handling and data analysis through the integration of AI, laboratory automation, and robotics. This position is ideal for a scientist who has experience building or significantly expanding experimental platforms and wants to take technical ownership of automation strategy, technology selection, workflow architecture, and scientific execution. The individual will operate as a technical leader responsible for establishing platform capabilities that accelerate protein and antibody discovery programs. This role combines hands‑on experimental science, platform strategy, capital planning, and scientific leadership, with future opportunity to build and mentor a small team. Key Responsibilities Platform Architecture and Ownership Lead the design and buildout of an automated protein sciences platform from concept through implementation Evaluate, select, and implement robotic systems, liquid handlers, and supporting automation infrastructure Define workflows for protein production, purification, and characterization to maximize throughput and reproducibility Establish best practices for automation integration into discovery workflows Serve as the scientific and technical owner of the platform Protein Science and Experimental Leadership Design and execute protein science workflows including: Cell‑free protein expression systems Protein purification (affinity, ion exchange, SEC) Binding characterization assays (BLI, SPR, ELISA, Octet) Biophysical characterization techniques Apply structural biology knowledge to guide construct design and protein optimization strategies Interpret structure‑function relationships to guide discovery decisions Drive experimental strategy supporting therapeutic protein programs Automation Strategy and Technology Development Develop automated workflows for protein expression, purification, and assay execution Partner with vendors and internal stakeholders to deploy new technologies Identify opportunities to improve throughput, quality, and reproducibility through automation Establish data workflows supporting automated experimentation Infrastructure Development and Budget Management Define equipment strategy and capital investment priorities Lead vendor evaluations and purchasing decisions Manage platform budget and equipment planning Design laboratory processes ensuring efficient system integration Cross‑Functional Collaboration Partner with computational biology teams to integrate modeling and experimental workflows Work closely with antibody discovery, protein engineering, and translational teams Support integration of experimental data into discovery decision making Contribute to strategic platform development supporting pipeline growth Qualifications PhD in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or related field 6+ years of industry experience in protein sciences, biologics discovery, or related field Deep expertise in protein expression, purification, and binding characterization assays Experience applying structural biology to protein design, characterization, or discovery workflows Experience with cell‑free protein expression systems Proven experience evaluating, selecting, purchasing, and implementing cell‑free system, laboratory automation or robotic liquid handling systems (required) Demonstrated experience building or scaling automated experimental workflows Strong understanding of protein structure and structure‑function relationships Experience leading technical platforms, complex scientific initiatives, or infrastructure buildouts Demonstrated ability to independently drive new technical capabilities from concept to execution Preferred Qualifications Prior experience applying protein science platforms within drug discovery or biologics development environments Experience supporting antibody, protein engineering, or biologics discovery programs Familiarity with high‑throughput screening technologies or discovery platform environments Experience integrating laboratory automation with data infrastructure such as LIMS or experimental data systems Working knowledge of computational biology approaches, including protein modeling or structure prediction tools Demonstrated mentorship of scientists or contribution to building technical teams Hands‑on experience with structural biology techniques such as cryo‑EM, X‑ray crystallography, or related modeling tools Candidates must have prior experience selecting and implementing at least one major laboratory automation or robotic system in an industry environment. Compensation and Benefits The expected base salary range for this position is $150,000 - $200,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to a candidate’s level, qualifications, experience, and skills. While most offers typically fall within the low to mid‑point of the range, we may extend an offer toward the higher end for exceptional candidates whose background and expertise exceeds the requirements of the role. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including: 100% paid employee premiums for medical/dental/vision, STD, LTD, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match of up to 3% and a vesting schedule of only 5 years, 15 PTO days per year, sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays and more. SystImmune offers an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success. SystImmune is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome diverse talent and encourage all qualified applicants to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr Systimmune