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. Alongside ongoing clinical trials. SystImmune has a robust preclinical pipeline of potential cancer therapeutics in the discover and IND-enabling stages, representing cutting-edge biologics development. 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 ResponsibilitiesPlatform Architecture and OwnershipLead the design and buildout of an automated protein sciences platform from concept through implementationEvaluate, select, and implement robotic systems, liquid handlers, and supporting automation infrastructureDefine workflows for protein production, purification, and characterization to maximize throughput and reproducibilityEstablish best practices for automation integration into discovery workflowsServe as the scientific and technical owner of the platformProtein Science and Experimental LeadershipDesign and execute protein science workflows including:Cell-free protein expression systemsProtein purification (affinity, ion exchange, SEC)Binding characterization assays (BLI, SPR, ELISA, Octet)Biophysical characterization techniquesApply structural biology knowledge to guide construct design and protein optimization strategiesInterpret structure-function relationships to guide discovery decisionsDrive experimental strategy supporting therapeutic protein programsAutomation Strategy and Technology DevelopmentDevelop automated workflows for protein expression, purification, and assay executionPartner with vendors and internal stakeholders to deploy new technologiesIdentify opportunities to improve throughput, quality, and reproducibility through automationEstablish data workflows supporting automated experimentationInfrastructure Development and Budget ManagementDefine equipment strategy and capital investment prioritiesLead vendor evaluations and purchasing decisionsManage platform budget and equipment planningDesign laboratory processes ensuring efficient system integrationCross-Functional CollaborationPartner with computational biology teams to integrate modeling and experimental workflowsWork closely with antibody discovery, protein engineering, and translational teamsSupport integration of experimental data into discovery decision makingContribute to strategic platform development supporting pipeline growthQualificationsPhD in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or related field6+ years of industry experience in protein sciences, biologics discovery, or related fieldDeep expertise in protein expression, purification, and binding characterization assaysExperience applying structural biology to protein design, characterization, or discovery workflowsExperience with cell-free protein expression systemsProven experience evaluating, selecting, purchasing, and implementing cell free system, laboratory automation or robotic liquid handling systems (required)Demonstrated experience building or scaling automated experimental workflowsStrong understanding of protein structure and structure-function relationshipsExperience leading technical platforms, complex scientific initiatives, or infrastructure buildoutsDemonstrated ability to independently drive new technical capabilities from concept to executionPreferred QualificationsPrior experience applying protein science platforms within drug discovery or biologics development environmentsExperience supporting antibody, protein engineering, or biologics discovery programsFamiliarity with high-throughput screening technologies or discovery platform environmentsExperience integrating laboratory automation with data infrastructure such as LIMS or experimental data systemsWorking knowledge of computational biology approaches, including protein modeling or structure prediction toolsDemonstrated mentorship of scientists or contribution to building technical teamsHands-on experience with structural biology techniques such as cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography, or related modeling toolsCandidates 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.SystImmune is a leading and well-funded biotech company with a bright future. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success. SystImmune offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 100% paid employee premiums for medical/dental/vision, also 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.We offer 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.