Scientist, Biochemistry
Terray Therapeutics
Company Overview: Terray Therapeutics is a venture-backed biotechnology company led by pioneers and long-time leaders in artificial intelligence, synthetic chemistry, automation, and nanotechnology. We’re generating chemical data purpose-built to propel drug discovery into the information age — and we’re doing it on a larger scale and faster than has ever before been possible.
Our closed loop system generates precise chemical datasets at unrivaled scale that work seamlessly with AI to systematically map biochemical interactions between small molecules and causes of disease. Iterative cycles of virtual molecular design and experimentation power AI and machine learning models, which in turn guide the next cycle of design. With a chemistry engine that measures billions of interactions daily and becomes increasingly precise with every cycle, we can answer an unprecedented array of questions — deriving insights that enable us to predictably create drugs for patients in need.
Position Summary: Terray Therapeutics is seeking a motivated, creative, and experienced biochemist to join our biochemical assays team. This role will be full-time onsite. In this role, the candidate will play a critical part in developing and optimizing novel biochemical assays to advance our internal pipeline targets and will be a pivotal collaborator within a multidisciplinary team. Successful candidate will be expected to be familiar with a variety of biochemical techniques in the context of small molecule drug discovery and be comfortable with driving projects within a team. This role will report to the Biochemical Assays team lead.
The core responsibilities of this position are:
- Biochemical assays
- Review the literature to gain a comprehensive understanding of internal therapeutic targets of interest
- Design and develop assays for protein targets with an understanding of the underlying biology, desired mechanism of action, and limitations of various assay formats (FP, HTRF, ELISA, ADP Glo, etc)
- Work closely with assay team and automation team to optimize assays for high throughput compound testing using lab automation
- Support internal small molecule hit testing and troubleshooting
- Project Collaboration
- Manage CROs for external in vitro assay testing needs
- Analyze and interpret experimental data and communicate results in project team meetings
- Interface with a multidisciplinary team (including chemists and computational scientists) as the biochemistry representative to drive decision-making
- Lab Support
- Assist in evaluating and setting up new lab instrumentation
- Assist in general lab organization, ordering, and maintenance of lab equipment
- Contribute to developing new informatics or workflow tools as needed
Experience and Qualifications: Part of Terray’s success is nurtured by a hands-on work environment where everyone is accountable, vested in a vision of excellence, and actively taking part in the success of the business. Terray supports a positive work environment where employees can feel engaged, recognized and empowered to be creative.
Required Qualifications:
- PhD in field of biophysics, biochemistry or enzymology with 1+ years of small molecule drug discovery industry experience OR
- MSc with 7+ years of small molecule drug discovery industry experience
- Hands-on experience in developing and optimizing various types of biochemical assays (fluorescence, luminescence, FP, HTRF/FRET, ELISA, etc) and measuring small molecule inhibition (IC50) or binding (Kd) to protein targets
- Excellent organizational, interpersonal and communication skills and can thrive in a highly collaborative research environment
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate in a multidisciplinary team and drive project progress
- Demonstrated technical proficiency, attention to detail, ability to troubleshoot to solve problems and to deliver high quality data
Preferred Qualifications:
- Background in immunology is a plus
- Familiarity with biophysical techniques (nano-DSF, SPR, etc) is a plus
- Hands-on experience with lab automation, high throughput screening (384-well format) or liquid handling systems (Tempest, Agilent BRAVO) is preferred
Candidates will exhibit the ability to work well under pressure to provide results in a short timeframe. The company is looking for a highly responsive, goal-oriented individual who will bring significant energy and drive to solve complex technical problems and help us achieve our mission to advance human health.
Compensation Details: $125,000 - $175,000 (annually) depending on experience participation in the Company's option plan; 3% retirement safe harbor contribution; fully-paid medical, dental, vision, life and disability benefits.