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Protein Design Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

AP Biology Tutor

College Park, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis, and signal transduction pathways. Guides students through experimental design, data analysis using ...

AP Biology Tutor

Rockville, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis, and signal transduction pathways. Guides students through experimental design, data analysis using ...

AP Biology Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis, and signal transduction pathways. Guides students through experimental design, data analysis using ...

AP Biology Tutor

Laurel, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis, and signal transduction pathways. Guides students through experimental design, data analysis using ...

AP Biology Tutor

Washington, DC · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis, and signal transduction pathways. Guides students through experimental design, data analysis using ...

AP Biology Tutor

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis, and signal transduction pathways. Guides students through experimental design, data analysis using ...

AP Biology Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis, and signal transduction pathways. Guides students through experimental design, data analysis using ...

AP Biology Tutor

Bowie, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis, and signal transduction pathways. Guides students through experimental design, data analysis using ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

Infectious Disease In Vivo Cancer Vaccine Scientist

AstraZeneca

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$92K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


AstraZeneca rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Job Description

HereatAstraZenecayou'llhave the opportunity to make a difference in people's lives every day. As one of the world's premier biotechnology companies, our mission is centered on delivering life-changing products that advance worldhealth, andhelp fight and cure disease. As aScientistin the Virology and Vaccines Discovery groupintheearlyInfectious Diseasetherapeutic areabasedinGaithersburg, MD,you'llplay a pivotal role in channeling our scientific capabilities to make a positive impact on changing patients' lives.

TheVirology and Vaccines Discoverygroup atAstraZenecaisdiscoveringand developing biologics and vaccines targeting key viral pathogens, including respiratoryand chronicviruses.Weareconsistentlypushing the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines to patients.Our deepexpertiseinvaccines and immunologyenables our ability to advancenovel therapeutic approachesand technologiesto prevent and treat infectious disease.Wehaveanindustry-leadingpipelineandoffer a unique and strong collaborative network as part of the AstraZeneca family.

Currently, we areseekinga highly motivated and broadly skilled bench scientist within vivotechnicaland immunologyexpertiseanda track recordof scientific achievement to join the Virology and Vaccine Discovery group at AstraZeneca in Gaithersburg, MD. Thescientist will be a key member of a team focused on developing next-generationcancervaccinesthrough the drug discovery process. The position requires a strong interest invivarium andlaboratory bench worktodriveprojects forward.


AstraZenecahas a dynamic environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. We attract top minds, and we nurture and build top talent.

Major responsibilities:

  • Design, manage,and conduct in vivo rodent studies to support the development ofcancervaccines targetinghosttumorantigens andendogenous retroviruses

  • Performimmunizations, tumor implantations,andnecropsies, collect and process tissues and blood products for downstream immunological assays

  • Conduct in vitro immunological assays to support the development of vaccines, including flow cytometry, ELISpot, and ELISA

  • Design, execute and interpret results from animal studies to characterize biologic therapies directed againsttumor antigens aspart of vaccine antigen discovery efforts

  • Work collaboratively with colleagues across the organization (e.g.protein engineering, bioinformatics, pathology, and translational medicine) to drive projects towards successful completion

Requirements/ Qualifications:

  • B.S. in Virology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, Cell Biology, or related scientific discipline with2+ years of experienceor

  • M.S. in Virology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, Cell Biology, or related scientific discipline

Specific skills:

Broad experiencedesiredinoncology,immunology, and vaccinology

  • Advanced knowledge ofanimal handling techniques, including intramuscular, intranasal, subcutaneous,and intravenous immunizations,andeuthanasia

  • Advanced knowledge of tumorharvesting andother tissueprocessing,i.e.lymph nodesandspleen

  • Experience with mouse tumor modeldevelopmentisstronglydesired

  • Knowledgeof flow cytometrysample acquisition and data analysisisstronglydesired

  • Experience with automation is desired

  • Ability to multitask and prioritizeamongnumerousprojects

  • Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills together with evidence of having used these tosupport problem solving and delivery in a team-oriented, collaborative environment

  • Ability to work in a collaborative, fast-paced environment while planning and meeting timelines

  • Proventrack recordof success in your research and experience preparing written scientificreports (e.g.manuscripts) and oral presentations (e.g.slides, posters)

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

Job complexity:Must be able to understand,conductand interpret results of technically challenging experiments with supervision.

Supervision:Ability to work independently as well as part of team is expected.

To be considered for this exciting opportunity, please complete the full application on our website at your earliest convenience.

AstraZeneca is an equal opportunity employer. AstraZeneca will consider all qualified applicants for employment without discrimination on grounds of disability, sex or sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity leave status, race or national or ethnic origin, age, religion or belief, gender identity or re-assignment, marital or civil partnership status, protected veteran status (if applicable) or any other characteristic protected by law. AstraZeneca only employs individuals with the right to work in the country/ieswhere the role is advertised.

The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $92,252 to $130,378.Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives-an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans.

Date Posted

07-ago-2026

Closing Date

13-ago-2026

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.


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