Sr Research Associate / Scientist (Enzyme Development)

TL;DR

Sr Research Associate / Scientist (Enzyme Development): Designing and optimizing biocatalysts to build bio-based materials for a zero-carbon economy with an accent on protein characterization and engineering. Focus on executing the DBTL cycle, developing high-throughput screens, and integrating structural data to improve strain productivity.

Location: San Leandro, CA, USA. Legal authorization to work in the United States is required

Salary: $110,000–$140,000

Company

hirify.global is pioneering breakthrough science for a fossil-free future by building bio-based materials to accelerate the world’s transition to a true zero-carbon economy.

What you will do

• Own the execution of enzyme characterization and engineering campaigns using laboratory and computational tools.
• Manage the full DBTL cycle for assigned projects, from DNA library design to protein testing and insights.
• Conduct protein purification, biophysical characterization, and enzyme kinetic analysis.
• Develop and refine high-throughput screens and leverage automation to increase assay throughput.
• Collaborate with Biology, Strain Engineering, and Fermentation teams to apply insights to improve strain productivity.
• Analyze scientific literature and document findings with experimental rigor in laboratory notebooks.

Requirements

• BS, MS, or PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 1-6+ years of relevant industrial experience.
• Strong hands-on experience in protein characterization, enzyme kinetics, and molecular biology (PCR, Gibson, Golden Gate).
• Proficiency in protein purification and biophysical characterization.
• Experience developing and executing protein screens (low to high-throughput).
• Legal authorization to work in the United States is required.

Nice to have

• Experience with computational tools such as Rosetta or Schrodinger BioLuminate.
• Ability to identify candidate enzymes using large databases like NCBI or metagenomic databases.
• Experience building protocols for lab automation platforms (e.g., BioMek, Opentrons).
• Experience translating enzyme engineering goals into productivity improvements in strains and fermentations.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive salary with company stock options and a 401(k) retirement plan with up to 4% match.
• 100% employee coverage on base medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Flexible time off policy including 18 days PTO and 11 paid company holidays per year.
• Relocation assistance may be available upon agreement.
• Mission-driven culture as a Certified B Corporation focused on sustainable materials.
• Regular monthly team all-hands and social events.