Flagship pioneering inc.

Research Associate, Protein Biochemistry

Cambridge, MA USA Full Time

What if… you could pioneer a new approach to designing life's most essential molecules?

FL116, backed by Flagship Pioneering, is an early-stage biotechnology company transforming the way biomolecules are synthesized. Our innovative platform has the potential to transform the way these critical research, diagnostic, and therapeutic tools are manufactured. We are seeking passionate problem solvers ready to make a profound impact on biotechnology and therapeutic innovation.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a motivated and creative Research Associate to join our team focused on protein expression, purification, and innovation. The successful candidate will contribute to the production, purification, and functional characterization of recombinant proteins supporting our research and development efforts. This is an exciting opportunity to join a growing interdisciplinary team and help establish core protein capabilities for a breakthrough synthesis platform.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Express recombinant proteins in cell-free, bacterial, and yeast systems, in bulk and at high throughput.
  • Purify proteins using chromatographic techniques such as affinity (Ni-NTA, GST), ion exchange, and size exclusion chromatography
  • Analyze protein samples using SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, BCA assays, and other biochemical methods
  • Develop and optimize activity and characterization assays for purified proteins, both in bulk and at high throughput
  • Maintain accurate and detailed lab records, including batch records and experiment documentation
  • Assist in troubleshooting expression or purification challenges and optimizing protocols
  • Prepare buffers and reagents, maintain reagent stocks, and ensure high laboratory standards
  • Collaborate closely with team members to achieve project goals and timelines
  • Comply with lab safety protocols and best practices in protein handling and biohazard management

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field with 2+ years of relevant laboratory experience
  • Hands-on experience with molecular biology and protein techniques (academic or industry settings)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with cell-free and cell-based protein expression
  • Strong analytical and organizational skills with attention to detail
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks, work independently, and thrive in a collaborative team environment
  • Familiarity with lab information management systems (LIMS), electronic lab notebooks (ELNs), or related data-management tools
  • Enthusiasm for learning and optimizing new techniques in a fast-paced, innovative environment

Who You Are

  • Innovative Pioneer: You thrive in breaking new ground scientifically and are passionate about leveraging protein biochemistry to create transformative technologies.
  • Collaborative Contributor: You excel in cross-functional teams, readily share expertise, and value the input of colleagues.
  • Inventive Problem Solver: You proactively identify challenges and rapidly ideate creative solutions.
  • Mission-Driven Individual: You are driven by an ambition to fundamentally change how biomolecules are synthesized and to meaningfully impact human health and biotechnology.

More About Flagship Pioneering

Flagship Pioneering conceives, creates, resources, and develops first-in-category life sciences companies to transform human health and sustainability. Since its launch in 2000, Flagship has originated and fostered more than 100 scientific ventures, generating billions in value. Flagship companies are known for addressing humanity’s most pressing challenges and advancing innovative solutions with global impact.

We are an equal opportunity employer and are dedicated to building diverse and inclusive teams. If you have some of the qualifications listed above but not all, we still encourage you to apply. We value passion, experience in many forms, and unique backgrounds.

Come pioneer the future with us.

 

At Flagship, we recognize there is no perfect candidate. If you have some of the experience listed above but not all, please apply anyway. Experience comes in many forms, skills are transferable, and passion goes a long way. We are dedicated to building diverse and inclusive teams and look forward to learning more about your unique background.

Recruitment & Staffing Agencies: Flagship Pioneering and its affiliated Flagship Lab companies (collectively, “FSP”) do not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than candidates. The submission of unsolicited resumes by recruitment or staffing agencies to FSP or its employees is strictly prohibited unless contacted directly by Flagship Pioneering’s internal Talent Acquisition team. Any resume submitted by an agency in the absence of a signed agreement will automatically become the property of FSP, and FSP will not owe any referral or other fees with respect thereto.

 

The salary range for this role is $65,000 - $93,500. Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience. FL116 currently offers healthcare coverage, annual incentive program, retirement benefits and a broad range of other benefits. Compensation and benefits information is based on FL116's good faith estimate as of the date of publication and may be modified in the future.