Brief Description of SyntheX

SyntheX is focused on discovering therapeutics that act as modulators of intracellular protein interactions. We have built ToRPPIDO to allow us to easily discover compounds that can disrupt specific protein-protein interactions (PPIs) within cells. With ToRNeDO we achieve the inverse, we discover compounds that bring two proteins, an E3 ubiquitin ligase of our choice and a neosubstrate of interest, together to achieve targeted protein degradation. Both ToRPPIDO and ToRNeDO rely on the concept of strong and robust negative selection – the ability to select against a default event – either a PPI taking place that is to be disrupted, or the presence of a neosubstrate to be degraded. We are currently focusing on oncology and have a pre-clinical program as well as several discovery programs.

We are a fast growing startup located in the Mission Bay neighborhood of San Francisco. Additional information can be found on www.synthexlabs.com.  Submit CV and cover letter to info@synthexlabs.com.

Job Summary

SyntheX is looking for a talented, enthusiastic, and highly motivated yeast geneticist with a strong background in synthetic biology & strain engineering to contribute to our drug discovery platforms.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or MSc, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, Genetics, Synthetic Biology or closely related field
• 5+ years of lab experience in demanding, analytical work environment is preferred
• 2+ years of biotech start-up or industry experience is highly valued, but not a prerequisite

Skills and Experience

• Demonstrated ability to design, construct, and engineer genetic or metabolic pathways.
• Experience working with S. cerevisiae and E. coli is required; additional experience with other microorganisms is a plus.
• Hands on experience with synthetic biology and strain engineering techniques such as PCR, Gibson Assembly, restriction digestion, ligation, and homologous recombination.
• Design and implement molecular and synthetic biology workflows for the construction of plasmids, strains, and enzymes to facilitate strain engineering efforts.
• Experience with protein expression, purification, and enzymatic assays is plus.
• Experience with protein-protein interaction assays is a plus.
• Experience with protein degradation is a plus.
• Lead the design of experiments, creation & optimization of protocols, and collection & processing data.
• Coordinate with external collaborators, partners, and vendors to ensure smooth workflow between all stakeholders.
• Assist with the expansion of the group’s capabilities by exploring new technologies and strategies to improve experimental throughput and support automation efforts.
• Excellent time management skills, effective with multitasking, and an adept ability to improvise work plans while maintaining efficiency.
• Effectively communicate and collaborate with other team members
• Mentor and guide junior Research Associates as needed.
• Rigorous attention to details with experimental design, execution, reproducibility, and excellent documentation.
• A passion for science!

Responsibilities

• As a key team member, the candidate will be involved in designing, optimizing, establishing, and executing a wide-range of genetic and cell-based assays to support our discovery programs
• Thinking critically and creatively to generate and execute ideas to positively impact project goals
• Independently select appropriate methods and techniques in performing experiments
• Recommend alternatives, research new methods and techniques and proactively seeks out potential solutions to problems
• Independently write technical reports and technical presentations within the area of expertise
• The candidate will provide regular project updates in team meetings
• Ability to work independently and effectively on multiple programs in a dynamic environment
• Demonstrates strong motivation, attention to detail, and ability to think independently and fully integrate into a high achieving team environment
• Strong scientific and laboratory skills with a keen eye for detail and a passion for science, innovation, and learning

Development Opportunities

This role offers a unique opportunity to be part of growing a company. It offers significant exposure to new scientific research and development. A successful candidate will have the opportunity for career progression and professional growth as the company grows. It is an opportunity to work with a small, dedicated, and diverse professional team working towards the goal of expanding the drug discovery toolkit and helping advance therapies to patients.