Scientist / Senior Scientist, Protein Biochemistry - Volastra Therapeutics : Job Details

COMPANYVolastra Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage oncology biotech company based in New York City, pioneering novel approaches to treating cancer by targeting chromosomal instability (CIN), a unique vulnerability in cancer. Since its founding in 2019, Volastra has grown to support ongoing discovery efforts and a growing clinical organization.Our lead pipeline programs focus on two distinct inhibitors of KIF18A, a novel therapeutic target. VLS-1488, internally discovered, entered clinical trials in Q4 2023 for the treatment of advanced cancers. Sovilnesib, in-licensed from Amgen in 2023, re-entered the clinic in Q2 2024. Both assets have been granted Fast-Track Designation by the FDA.Volastra is backed by top US and European venture firms such as Arch, Polaris, Vida, Droia, Catalio, and B Capital, alongside strategic investment from Eli Lilly. In addition to venture funding, Volastra has established partnerships with oncology leaders. Our senior leadership team is highly experienced, supported by a world-class advisory board.We are headquartered in West Harlem, New York City, within easy reach of Columbia, Cornell, Memorial Sloan Kettering, and surrounding areas. Please visit www.volastratx.com for more information.JOB DESCRIPTIONWe are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Scientist / Senior Scientist in Protein Biochemistry to join our dynamic team. This role will report directly to the Director of Protein Biochemistry and Structural Biology and will focus on designing and executing advanced protein science experiments. The ideal candidate will leverage their expertise in enzymology and biophysical tools to complement our biochemistry platform, drive assay innovation, and contribute to the in-depth understanding of protein activity and small molecule mechanisms of action. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with internal biology teams and external contract research organizations (CROs) to optimize and execute protein biochemistry experiments. This role offers the opportunity to contribute significantly to high-impact projects in a cutting-edge environment. Volastra is a fast-paced and growing biotech company. There is ample opportunity for the ideal candidate to grow and develop with the organization. The job is based in NYC with a flexible option for hybrid work. RESPONSIBILITIES

• Report to the Director of Protein Biochemistry and Structural Biology for the design and execution of protein biochemistry experiments.
• Complement Volastra's protein biochemistry platform introducing cutting edge enzymology and biophysical technology for the understanding of protein activity and the mechanism of action of small molecule inhibitors.
• Design and develop in-vitro assays to characterize small molecule inhibitors, including innovative assay formats for detailed mechanism of action studies and high-throughput screening (HTS) adaptability.
• Collaborate with biology teams in the design of cellular assays for the characterization of protein - protein interactions and protein - small molecule interactions.
• Apply experience in protein structural analysis to optimize protocols and protein reagents.
• Manage, design and execute protein biochemistry experiments at multiple CROs. Monitor progress and report to internal teams while optimizing external capabilities.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Protein Sciences, or Enzymology with at least 5 years of industry experience or M.Sc. in similar field with at least 10 years of industry experience, preferably in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Demonstrable expertise in in-vitro assay development and enzymology for the characterization of small molecule therapeutic agents and their adaptability to HTS format.
• Demonstrable accomplishment in protein production, protein engineering and biophysical characterization.
• Experience in cellular assays for the study of protein - protein interaction and protein - small molecule interaction.
• Previous experience managing CROs for protein sciences tasks is preferred.
• General knowledge of protein structure and computer aided drug design is a plus.
• Ability to thrive in a flexible, fast-paced environment with excellent communication and collaborative skills.

SALARY RANGEApproximately $130,000- $165,000 which may vary depending on qualifications, experience, and ultimate leveling.