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Protein Design Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Director, Protein Engineering

Redmond, WA · On-site

$180K - $240K/yr

Use NGS, flow cytometry, and computational tools to inform iterative protein design and lead ... selection. Stay current on the protein engineering, display technology, and lab automation ...

The Institute for Protein Design has an outstanding opportunity for Research Scientist/Engineer 2 to join their team. About this Opportunity As a member of the IPD Core R&D Labs, you will make ...

Institute for Protein Design's (IPD) has an outstanding opportunity for a Senior Science Communications Specialist to join their team. About this Opportunity The Senior Communication Specialist is ...

Develop and implement a strategic major gifts plan in partnership with the Senior Director for Philanthropy for the UW Medicine's Institute for Protein Design, as well as other emerging priorities as ...

... immunology, protein design, cell biology, drug discovery, and pharmacology. The diverse array of projects supported by this position include basic research in biomolecular function, protein ...

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Protein Design information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$47.8K

$130.3K

$229.3K

How much do protein design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for protein design in Seattle, WA is $130,294.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,000.00 and $163,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 near Seattle, WA are hiring for Protein Design jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Protein Design job openings:
Infographic showing various Protein Design job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,294 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Biochemistry (UW Institute for Protein Design)

University of Washington

Seattle, WA • On-site

$10K - $12K/mo

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


University Of Washington School Of Medicine rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

184th of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
The Department of Biochemistry and the Institute for Protein Design (IPD) at the University of Washington School of Medicine invite applications for a full-time tenure-track Assistant Professor position. We seek a creative scientist to develop and apply cutting-edge protein design capabilities to solve 21st-century challenges. Incumbent is expected to build an internationally recognized program developing innovative protein-based biologics and technologies for therapeutic applications.
Tenure-track assistant professors are eligible for multi-year appointments that align with a 12-month service period (July 1-June 30). Faculty with 12-month service periods are paid for 11 months of service over a 12-month period (July-June), meaning the equivalent of one month is available for paid time off.
The anticipated start date for this position is July 1, 2026.
University of Washington faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Our faculty engage in classroom teaching at the undergraduate, graduate, and medical school levels, along with mentoring, supervision, and instruction within their laboratory.
Salary and academic appointment at University of Washington will be commensurate with experience, qualifications, and academic rank.
The base salary range for a tenure-track assistant professor position will be $10,000-$12,500 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications, or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor prevailing wage determination.
Review of applications will begin on October 15, 2025 and may continue until the position is filled.
Qualifications
Applicants should have an M.D., Ph.D., or foreign equivalent and have a strong publication record in applying protein design to develop enabling technologies.
Application Instructions
For consideration, please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, research statement, a brief statement regarding your teaching experience and/or philosophy, diversity statement, and 3 confidential references via Interfolio.

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