Scientist I/II

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Belharra is looking for a motivated Scientist I/II to join our proteomics team. In this role, you’ll collaborate with chemists and biologists to create and use specialized tools for drug discovery. The successful candidate will have a background in high-throughput sample preparation and small molecule screening of large libraries. We are seeking a self-starter with strong problem-solving skills and an innovative mindset. This role will contribute to the growth of Belharra’s research portfolio by screening high value targets in a variety of cell-based assays.

WHAT YOU’LL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR

• Align with proteomics team to develop and advance an in-cell proteomic platform to profile proteome wide engagement of chemical probes though quantitative mass spectrometry.
• The candidate will work closely within the proteomics team identify and characterize hits from our chemoproteomics platform.
• Align with and support the platform group for different types of mass sample preparations including probe enrichments, competition, and dose response analysis.
• Support biology group with chemical probe validation of screening hits and confirming target engagement and selectivity.
• Interface with chemistry group to advance understanding of structure-activity relationships and in cell target engagement.
• Participate in all aspects of laboratory operations.
• Candidate must have excellent problem-solving skills and be self-motivated.
• Strong ability to communicate with project teams through presentations.
• Clearly and accurately document work.
• Perform under tight timelines and work effectively across multiple projects and align with different project teams.

Requirements

• PhD or MS with 8+ years or BS with 10+ years.
• Chemical biology experience including mechanism of action studies and probe profiling, biochemistry, cell biology, and quantitative mass spectrometry methods desired (industry experience preferred).
• Ability to work closely across disciplines with Biology and Chemistry teams to advance programs.
• Functional understanding of chemical principles and structure-activity relationships.
• Experience in complex sample preparation including immunoprecipitations, small-molecule enrichments, and whole proteome analysis.
• Knowledge in biophysical characterization methods for proteins (SDS-PAGE, Western blot) and an interest in advanced methods (NanoBRET, SPR, ITC, etc.) is a plus.
• Well-rounded molecular biology toolkit including: CRISPR, transient transfection, generating stable cell lines, mutagenesis, etc.
• Tissue culture experience with immortalized cell lines (suspension and adherent). Primary tissue culture experience is a plus.
• General understanding of proteomic acquisition and quantitative analysis techniques and experience with different data analysis platforms is advantageous such as IP2, MaxQuant, Skyline, and Proteome Discover.
• Familiarity with target deconvolution approaches including chemoproteomics, CESTA, DARTS and FUSION.
• Working knowledge of cell biology and high-throughput screening techniques.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING TO THE TEAM

• People-first approach. You take pride in the way you collaborate and partner with people across the business.
• Passion for problem solving. You are excited by new challenges and know how to achieve maximum results and drive projects forward.
• Thirst for overachieving. You don’t just meet goals, you set the standard.
• Candidate must have excellent problem-solving skills and be self-motivated.
• Strong ability to communicate with project teams through presentations and preparation of data packages.
• Clearly and accurately document work.
• Perform under tight timelines and work effectively across multiple projects and align with different project teams.

WHAT YOU’LL GET AS PART OF OUR TEAM

• A collaborative, fun, and positive culture.
• Limitless growth and learning opportunities.
• A chance to make a lasting impact on drug discovery and human health.
• Competitive compensation and company ownership.
• Excellent Medical, Dental and Vision coverage from a broad choice of providers and plans.
• 100% of Target premium coverage for employees; 85% of Target premium coverage for eligible dependents
• 401(k) program with a company sponsored contribution.
• “Take what you need” vacation and sick leave policy.
• 10 annual paid company holidays, plus the last week of December.
• A new office and lab space in San Diego with flexibility and autonomy to do your work how and where you need.