Scientist, Research (Protein Design)

The Opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist to join our team at the forefront of developing a new class of engineered biologics with the potential to transform the treatment of autoimmune diseases. This is an exciting opportunity to work on next-generation therapeutic modalities that combine advanced protein design, high-throughput in vitro and cell-based assays, and in vivo studies to push far beyond what conventional antibodies can achieve.

You will work closely with a talented protein design team to push the boundaries of engineered biologics, using cutting-edge computational and experimental approaches to create novel molecules. You will be deeply involved in every stage of the program, with the opportunity to help drive the science from early concept through preclinical proof of concept.

Reporting to the Associate Director of Research, the ideal candidate will bring intellectual curiosity, strong fundamentals in cell biology and biochemistry, and a genuine enthusiasm for working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where the science is truly novel.

This is a full-time position located at Visterra’s offices in Waltham, MA.

Responsibilities                                                                

• Design and execute cell-based and biochemical assays to evaluate the activity, potency, mechanism of action, and selectivity of novel engineered biologic candidates.


• Collaborate closely with protein design and engineering colleagues to iterate on molecule design, interpret results in a mechanistic framework, and drive data-informed decisions.


• Develop and optimize new in vitro model systems relevant to target biology and therapeutic mechanism, including primary cell assays where appropriate.


• Independently analyze and interpret experimental data, troubleshoot methodological challenges, and propose creative solutions.


• Contribute to project strategy by building a strong working knowledge of target disease biology and aligning experimental approaches with program goals.


• Present experimental findings and strategic perspectives clearly to internal teams and leadership.


• Stay current with the scientific literature and contribute emerging insights to the team.


• Mentor and provide scientific guidance to junior team members, including research associates and interns.

Requirements

• PhD in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, or a related field; recent graduates are encouraged to apply. Candidates with a B.S. and 8+ years of relevant industry experience will also be considered.


• Hands-on experience designing and executing cell-based and biochemical assays, including work with primary and established cell lines.


• Strong foundation in protein biology, including expression, purification, and characterization of recombinant proteins.


• Prior experience with therapeutic antibodies, biologics screening, or protein engineering is a strong plus.


• Curiosity-driven scientific mindset with strong analytical and critical thinking skills.


• Excellent written and oral communication skills; comfortable presenting complex data to both scientific and cross-functional audiences.


• Collaborative and team-oriented, with the ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary environment.


• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced setting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with lysosomal biology, receptor-mediated endocytosis, or intracellular trafficking pathways.


• Background in immunology and understanding of relevant autoimmune disease biology.


• Familiarity with yeast or phage display, high-throughput screening, or NGS-based methods.


• Experience with automation and liquid handling platforms.


• Comfort with basic structural biology tools (e.g., PyMOL) to contextualize protein data.

Management responsibilities: This position may include supervisory responsibilities

Travel: Possible travel to local and national conferences 

About Visterra

Visterra is a clinical stage biotechnology company committed to developing innovative antibody-based therapies for the treatment of patients with kidney, immune-mediated and other hard-to-treat diseases. Our proprietary technology platform enables the design and engineering of precision antibody-based product candidates that specifically bind to, and modulate, key disease targets. Applying this technology to disease targets that are not adequately addressed by traditional therapeutic approaches, we are developing a robust pipeline of novel therapies for patients with unmet needs. Visterra’s pipeline has multiple clinical-stage assets and one approved therapeutic, sibeprenlimab.

As a member of the Otsuka family of companies, we are uniquely positioned as a small, dynamic, nimble and innovative organization where individuals and teams are empowered to make big impacts – while benefiting from the support, strength, stability and long-term perspective of a 100-year-old global company. Visterra has approximately 105 employees and is located in Waltham, Massachusetts.

Visterra provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.