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Protein Design Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Molecular Biologist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$74K - $124K/yr

Design and optimize recombinant protein expression systems for multiple host platforms. * Perform protein purification and characterization using biochemical and biophysical assays. * Conduct protein ...

Design and optimize recombinant protein expression systems for multiple host platforms. * Perform protein purification and characterization using biochemical and biophysical assays. * Conduct protein ...

Biologist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$85K - $141K/yr

Apply antigen design and protein engineering tools to support scientific research projects. * Conduct structure prediction and modeling to inform experimental design. * Perform in vitro biochemical ...

Biologist

Bethesda, MD

$85K - $141K/yr

Apply antigen design and protein engineering tools to support scientific research projects. * Conduct structure prediction and modeling to inform experimental design. * Perform in vitro biochemical ...

Biologist (52117)

Gaithersburg, MD · Hybrid

$94K - $102K/yr

Experience must include two (2) years of each of the following: protein formulation; formulation and stability design assessment studies for protein nanoparticle-based vaccines for HIV antibodies ...

Independently initiate, plan, design, evaluate, revise and execute projects within CGE, UPLC field ... Column chromatography for protein purification by AEX, CEX, affinity, SEC, HIC. Column packing and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Protein Design information

What is the difference between Protein Design vs Protein Engineering?

AspectProtein DesignProtein Engineering
Required CredentialsBiochemistry, Molecular Biology, BioinformaticsBiochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, academiaResearch labs, biotech companies, academia
Industry UsageDesigning novel proteins, drug development, synthetic biologyModifying existing proteins for improved function or stability

Protein Design focuses on creating new proteins with specific functions, often using computational methods. Protein Engineering involves modifying existing proteins to enhance or alter their properties. Both roles require similar skills and are used in research, biotech, and pharmaceutical industries, but their goals differ: one designs from scratch, the other optimizes existing proteins.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in protein design, and how are they addressed within a team setting?

Professionals in protein design often encounter challenges such as predicting accurate protein folding, ensuring stability, and achieving desired biological activity. These complexities are typically addressed through close collaboration with computational biologists, structural biologists, and experimental scientists. Teams frequently hold cross-functional meetings to troubleshoot issues, share findings, and iterate on design strategies based on laboratory results. This collaborative environment helps leverage diverse expertise and accelerates the development of novel proteins with desired functions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a protein design scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Protein Design Scientist, you need a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and computational modeling, typically supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Proficiency with tools such as Rosetta, PyMOL, and molecular dynamics simulation software, as well as experience with protein expression and purification techniques, is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills to drive innovation and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for designing functional proteins, troubleshooting experiments, and advancing research goals in biotechnology and pharmaceutical development.

What is protein design?

Protein design is the process of creating new proteins or modifying existing ones to have specific functions or properties. This can involve using computational tools, laboratory techniques, or a combination of both to predict and engineer amino acid sequences that will fold into desired three-dimensional structures. Protein design is used in various fields, including medicine, biotechnology, and research, to develop novel enzymes, therapeutics, or materials. The field requires a strong understanding of biology, chemistry, and computer science to achieve successful outcomes.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Protein Design jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Protein Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Protein Design job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Senior Scientist, Computational Protein Engineering

MSD

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:
This position is responsible for planning and developing an in-silico platform for antibody and other protein engineering in collaboration with other scientists in the group and across the company. The incumbent will be responsible for developing workflows for the de novo design of antibodies and proteins. This position assists in identifying and implementing departmental initiatives and strategies. This position may/will supervise the work of others directly and/or across interdisciplinary teams.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Independently designs and develop an in-silico platform for antibody and other protein engineering in collaboration with other scientists in the group and across the company
• Develops computational pipelines for protein structure determination using structural and/or sequence-based methods and/or artificial intelligence methods (e.g. Rosetta, AlphaFold)
• Develops computational pipelines for protein docking and antibody epitope mapping
• Independently combines data from different sources and analyze these or incorporate these into multidimensional optimization of protein interactions
• Leads a technical team to implement computational pipelines in protein design, engineering, or prediction
• Critically evaluates experimental data and incorporate this knowledge into design
• Provides input to the management team to identify, develop, and execute departmental initiatives and strategies.
• Leads technical team(s) to accomplish project goals and manages/coordinates work of other team members.
• Presents findings/analyses and any associated issues/solutions to peer groups and managers; make recommendations for project advancement.
• Leads cross-functional initiatives with other business units on projects/products or associated deliverables.
• Establishes and monitors direct report performance and development goals, assigns accountabilities, sets objectives, establishes priorities, and provides continuous coaching and recognition on performance.
• Stays current technological developments in area of expertise, expands knowledge through independent learning.
• Maintains organized, detailed and clear project records for self and direct reports.
• Understands, follows and enforces laboratory safety precautions to ensure compliance with company safety policies.
• Specific duties may vary depending upon departmental requirements.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:
• PhD in structural bioinformatics, molecular biology, bioengineering, biophysics, computational biology, or related field with 2 years of relevant experience
• Expertise with protein and antibody modeling, including antigen-antibody interactions
• Publications in the form of high-profile papers/patents within protein prediction or de novo protein design, including antibody or enzyme engineering.
• Experience with artificial intelligence and/or machine learning methods is desirable.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
• Proven record of remaining current, learning new techniques/research in areas of computational biochemistry
• Superior scientific fundamentals and analytical background.
• Ability to work independently and in teams, and to collaborate with external parties
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to working in a highly dynamic and collaborative environment
• Expert problem solving skills and demonstrated ability to organize and move project tasks forward in an orderly and structured fashion.
• Strong analytical skills with the demonstrated ability to gather and evaluate complex data and information and develop a recommendation and plan of action.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills required, with the ability to manage multiple and often changing priorities and issues of varying complexity while meeting time-sensitive deadlines and deliverables.
• Strong leadership skills with demonstrated knowledge and understanding of staff management practices and processes. Ability to establish accountabilities and expectations and manage performance to achieve results.
• Demonstrated propensity to be creative, collaborative, proactive, and self-motivated in the execution and completion of assigned tasks.
• Exceptional communication (written and verbal) skills regardless of the format (e.g., documents, public speaking situations, presentations, etc.).
• Project-level understanding and attention to detail with demonstrated commitment to excellence and performance.
• Proven proficiency with Microsoft Office (i.e., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
• While performing the duties of this job, the individual is frequently required to sit and stand for long periods. The individual is occasionally required to walk; use hands and fingers to operate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms.
• Up to 10 % of the day may be spent at a laboratory bench.
• There are aspects of the position's duties that require a person in this role to work at heights above four (4) feet on occasion and move/lift up to 25 pounds.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
• Laboratory environment working with chemical reagents and performing some Biosafety Level 2 work
o May involve handling of BSL-2 materials and organisms including human blood and/or blood products.
COMPENSATION SUMMARY
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $116,600. to $177,800. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.
BENEFITS SUMMARY
At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.
EEO/AA STATEMENT
MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit here.
Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.