Scientist (II/III/Sr. Scientist)

Scientist (II/III/Sr.)We're hiring a Scientist to work at the interface of enzyme engineering, protein biochemistry, and biomanufacturing to help develop innovative cell-free biocatalytic systems for sustainable production.ResponsibilitiesApply computational, rational, and/or AI/ML approaches (e.g., protein language models, structure-based design, and other data-driven methods) to design and prioritize enzyme variants for production of robust biocatalysts.Construct variant libraries informed by computational predictions, biochemical insight, and/or prior experimental data.Develop tiered screening strategies to efficiently evaluate large libraries (e.g., high-throughput primary screens followed by quantitative secondary assays).Execute wet lab experiments including molecular cloning, protein expression and purification, and enzyme characterization.Analyze experimental data to iteratively refine enzyme designs, computational models, and screening approaches.Drive enzyme and cell-free pathway engineering efforts end-to-end, from initial concept through validated performance improvements.Partner with Research Associates and Technicians to expand experimental throughput while maintaining data quality and reproducibility.Contribute to internal workflows and infrastructure for integrating computational design with experimental pipelines.Proactively consider real-world application constraints and customer requirements into project design strategy.Requirements / QualificationsPhD in Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Bioengineering, Synthetic Biology, or a related field with 2+ years of post-PhD industry experience.Demonstrated experience driving enzyme engineering projects end-to-end, integrating computational and/or ML-based design with experimental validation.Strong foundation in enzymology, enzyme kinetics, and multi-enzyme pathway design.Extensive hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques, including cloning, bacterial/fungal protein expression and purification, and enzyme assay development.Proficiency with programming and scientific computing or ML tools, including the ability to evaluate and deploy open-source models for specific applications.Experience designing and executing high-throughput or tiered screening strategies.Strong experimental design and data interpretation skills with a track record of iterative improvement.Experience in a startup or fast-paced, interdisciplinary R&D environment.Ability and desire to work collaboratively with R&D scientists, process engineers, and leadership to tackle challenges.Nice-to-haves / PreferredExperience designing and/or optimizing cell-free enzymatic cascades through pathway balancing, cofactor management, and bottleneck identification.Experience working with and/or engineering enzymes involved in cellulose or other polysaccharide/polymer biosynthesis, and/or membrane-associated or transmembrane enzymes.Compensation$120,000 - $170,000 annually; actual compensation may vary based on level, skills, experience, and geographic location.BenefitsMedical, Dental, and Vision insurance (100% coverage of monthly fees of base plan for employees and their dependents).401(k) with up to 2% company match at 100%.Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) plus 16 paid company holidays, including a one-week winter break.Daily $12 meal credit through on-site meal delivery Monday-Friday.Free snacks in-office.Hands-on experience with engineered enzyme platforms alongside a world-class interdisciplinary team.Direct impact on breakthrough materials used by global brands, with the opportunity to help scale technology from lab to market.Location: Alameda, CA headquarters – on-site presence required. No relocation assistance or visa sponsorship is available for this position.Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required. Rubi Labs cannot offer employment visa sponsorship at this time.In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.J-18808-Ljbffr