Associate Scientist/Scientist I, Strain Engineering – Platform Development

About Enlaza Therapeutics

Enlaza Therapeutics is a biotech company developing an innovative synthetic biology platform to create a unique class of biological medicines. We are dedicated to the development of treatments for serious disease and delivering these to patients.

Role Description

We seek a Associate Scientist/Scientist I skilled in synthetic biology and microbial strain engineering to help enable our technology platform development and drug discovery efforts. The ideal candidate will be an enthusiastic and motivated individual who is able to adapt to change. We are looking for someone eager to both contribute their expertise and continue learning as part of a collaborative, dedicated and positive team.

Responsibilities

• Design and clone DNA constructs using modern molecular biology techniques, such as Golden Gate Assembly, Gibson Assembly, etc.
• Perform genome engineering in E. coli using techniques such as Lambda Red recombineering, CRISPR, MAGE, etc.
• Design, perform, and analyze recombinant protein expression experiments to evaluate plasmid constructs and engineered strains, and apply findings to further improve recombinant protein yields and quality while maximizing strain fitness.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and provide insights to guide strain engineering strategies and project decision-making using software tools for data analysis (e.g., Excel, Prism, Geneious, Benchling, etc.).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate engineered strains into workflows for protein discovery, fermentation, protein purification, and analytics.
• Contribute to the development and optimization of high-throughput screening platforms for protein discovery, strain selection, and platform optimization.
• Integrate feedback and results from other groups (discovery, fermentation, protein purification, analytics) to assess and design improved plasmid constructs and strains.
• Communicate experimental plans, progress, and findings in a clear and concise manner through regular oral presentations and technical reports.
• Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures, results, and protocols in accordance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Stay informed about the latest advances in microbial strain engineering, synthetic biology, and related fields, and apply relevant technologies to drive innovation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in microbiology, molecular biology, bioengineering, synthetic biology, or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in microbial strain engineering, with at least 2–5 years of relevant experience in industry or academic research settings.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, cloning, and genome engineering.
• Strong understanding of microbial physiology, metabolism, and genetics, with the ability to apply this knowledge to engineer microbial strains for protein production.
• Experience and expertise with protein expression and purification, as well as analytical techniques for strain characterization, including affinity purification, SDS-PAGE, western blot, etc.
• Proficient in data analysis and interpretation using relevant software tools (e.g., Excel, Prism, JMP, Geneious, Benchling etc.) to assess strain performance and guide engineering strategies.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team to keep projects on track, and to communicate technical findings to internal stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced research environment.

Additional experience and skills not required, but helpful:

• DNA library construction methodologies, including for directed evolution experiments.
• NGS data analysis and bioinformatics.
• Microbial fermentation, preferably E. coli.

Compensation

In addition to a competitive compensation package with stock options, the company also offers a comprehensive benefits package for our employees and their families, which includes medical, dental, vision, and supplemental disability insurance.

Job Type

Full-time

Annual Salary Range

$115,000.00 – $135,000.00

Supplemental Pay Types

Bonus pay

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Flexible vacation
• Paid holidays
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance