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Protein Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Scientist I; Protein Science in Buffalo, NY Build your future at Curia, where our work has the power to save lives The Research Scientist I is expected to have foundational understanding in ...

Protein Designer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

We share our research as openly as possible to accelerate discovery and make our work broadly ... We are seeking a Protein Designer to join our Validation team. In this role, the Protein Designer ...

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How much do protein research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for protein research in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do professionals in protein research do?

Professionals in protein research study the structure, function, and interactions of proteins, which are essential molecules in all living organisms. Their work involves using various laboratory techniques to analyze how proteins work, how they contribute to health and disease, and how they can be engineered or targeted for therapeutic purposes. Protein researchers often collaborate with biologists, chemists, and medical scientists to make discoveries that advance biotechnology, medicine, and drug development.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in protein research, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in protein research often encounter challenges such as protein instability, difficulties in protein expression and purification, and the complexity of analyzing protein structures and functions. These issues are typically addressed by optimizing expression systems, employing advanced purification techniques, and collaborating with colleagues in bioinformatics, structural biology, and analytical chemistry. Close teamwork and ongoing learning are essential, as researchers may need to adapt protocols or use new technologies to overcome technical obstacles and advance their projects.

What is the difference between Protein Research vs Biochemist?

AspectProtein ResearchBiochemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related fieldsBachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Biochemistry or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research institutions, biotech companiesLaboratories, pharmaceutical companies, academic settings
Industry UsageFocused on studying proteins, their functions, and interactionsBroader focus on chemical processes in living organisms, including proteins
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for research roles in molecular biologyMore general, but overlaps in research areas

Protein Research specifically concentrates on studying proteins, their structures, functions, and interactions, often within specialized research settings. Biochemists have a broader scope, exploring various chemical processes in living organisms, including but not limited to proteins. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but Protein Research is more specialized in protein-focused studies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Protein Research Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Protein Research Scientist, you need a solid background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and protein chemistry, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a PhD in a life sciences field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques like mass spectrometry, chromatography, protein purification, and bioinformatics tools is essential, as are certifications in laboratory safety and compliance. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and collaborative communication are important soft skills that help drive innovative research and effective teamwork. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing experiments, analyzing complex data, and contributing to scientific advancements in protein science.
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What cities are hiring for Protein Research jobs? Cities with the most Protein Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Protein Research jobs? The most popular types of Protein Research jobs are:
What states have the most Protein Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Protein Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Protein Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 12% Temporary, and 36% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,222 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Senior Research Associate, Protein Expression ~ Contractor

Nurix

Brisbane, CA

Other

Posted yesterday


Key responsibilities

  • Plan, coordinate, and execute operational activities required for analytical and preparative scale expression of recombinant proteins in baculovirus and mammalian cell systems.

  • Work cross functionally with internal stakeholders to accomplish protein expression objectives.

  • Document expression conditions and results in internal databases and electronic lab notebook systems.


Job description

Position Title:  Senior Research Associate, Protein Expression

Nurix Therapeutics is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of targeted protein degradation medicines, the next frontier in innovative drug design aimed at improving treatment options for patients with cancer and inflammatory diseases. Powered by a fully AI-integrated discovery engine capable of tackling any protein class, and coupled with unparalleled ligase expertise, Nurix's dedicated team has built a formidable advantage in translating the science of targeted protein degradation into clinical advancements. Nurix aims to establish degrader-based treatments at the forefront of patient care, writing medicine's next chapter with a new script to outmatch disease.

Position

Nurix Therapeutics, Inc. is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Protein Expression Research Associate Contractor to join the DEL and Protein Sciences team. This individual will work cross functionally with internal stakeholders to plan, coordinate, and execute all operational activities required for analytical scale and preparative scale expression of recombinant proteins in baculovirus and mammalian cell systems. Additionally, they will be responsible for documentation of expression conditions and results in internal databases and electronic lab notebook systems.

Responsibilities:

  • Highly proficient in maintaining insect cell and mammalian cell cultures.
  • Excellent knowledge and high degree of familiarity with all steps in baculovirus expression of recombinant proteins, including clone design, generation and purification of bacmids, raising and titering of baculovirus, conducting MOI studies, cell culture of Sf9 and/or Tni/Hi5 cells, and harvesting of biomass on the scale of 1 L - 20 L.
  • Highly proficient in maintaining insect cell and mammalian cell cultures.
  • Strong working knowledge of protein characterization steps, including SDS-PAGE analysis, size exclusion chromatography, and/or thermal stability (e.g. nanoDSF).

Requirements

  • MS or equivalent with 2+ years of relevant experience, or Ph.D.
  • This position requires 2+ years of experience working with insect cell lines and baculovirus expression of recombinant proteins. Additional experience working with recombinant protein expression in mammalian cells (e.g. HEK293) is a plus. Industry experience preferred with exemplified ability to overexpress milligram amounts of protein for structural and functional studies for multiple protein classes.
  • Able to work in dynamic, fast-paced environment with experience prioritizing work across multiple projects.
  • Detail-oriented with strong record keeping skills.
  • Past experience purifying recombinant proteins (e.g. affinity chromatography, ion exchange, or size exclusion chromatography) is a bonus.
  • Must be able to lift 50+ pounds comfortably.
  • Onsite Position 

Salary Range: 70/hr - 81/hr

Fit with Nurix Culture and Values

  • Strong team orientation; highly collaborative
  • Solutions and results-oriented focus
  • Hands-on approach; resourceful and open to diverse points of view

Nurix Therapeutics, Inc. is committed to protecting and respecting your privacy and personal information, including information collected by Nurix when you apply for a job with Nurix or in the course of your employment with Nurix.  By applying for a position at Nurix, you agree to our collection and use of personal information as described in our Privacy Policy (https://www.nurixtx.com/privacy-policy/).Â