Who We Are:
Calico (Calico Life Sciences LLC) is an Alphabet-founded research and development company whose mission is to harness advanced technologies and model systems to increase our understanding of the biology that controls human aging. Calico will use that knowledge to devise interventions that enable people to lead longer and healthier lives. Calico’s highly innovative technology labs, its commitment to curiosity-driven discovery science, and, with academic and industry partners, its vibrant drug-development pipeline, together create an inspiring and exciting place to catalyze and enable medical breakthroughs.
Position Description:
The successful candidate will join our peptide chemistry team with a focus on peptide synthesis and engineering to support Calico’s research and drug development projects. The candidate will work closely with the protein biochemists, structural biologists, computational modeling scientists in the Protein Sciences group to investigate structure-activity relationships to drive peptide design and optimization. The ideal candidate must be highly motivated, detail-oriented, work autonomously with a variety of experimental techniques, and be comfortable presenting results to cross-functional teams.
Position Requirements:
- Ph.D. in chemistry, peptide chemistry or related discipline
- Experience working in biopharma/biotech sectors, or equivalent postdoctoral experience, is preferred. Track record of high-profile publications is desired
- Strong expertise in peptide synthesis, including automated flow synthesis, carboxylic acid activation, orthogonal protecting group synthesis, and macrocyclic peptide synthesis
- Experience with peptide design, including SAR studies and scaffold optimization
- Strong expertise in peptide library design and synthesis, including split and pool library synthesis, and library synthesis with non-canonical amino acids
- Proficient in peptide purification techniques, including using HPLC/flash chromatography/SPE
- Experience with organic synthesis, including transition metal catalysis and synthesis of non-canonical amino acids)
- Experience with analytical methods, including HPLC/LC-MS/SEC/MS MS/CD/NMR/MALD
- Accountable, meticulous with attention to detail, and able to multitask
- Strong teamwork and proactive communication skills
- Self-motivated and able to work independently in a cross-functional team environment
- Must be willing to work onsite 5 days per week
Nice to Have:
- Experience with protein-peptide interaction characterization is highly preferred, including SPR, BLI, FP (fluorescence polarization), Mass spec, DSF, ITC, etc.
- Experience with automation is highly desired
- Experience with affinity selection-mass spectrometry is preferred
- Previous CRO management experience is desired
The estimated base salary range for this role is $127,000 - $135,000. Actual pay will be based on a number of factors including experience and qualifications. This position is also eligible for two annual cash bonuses.