Research Scientist - Structural Biology Core

Overview

The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is seeking a highly motivated and accomplished Research Scientist to join our state-of-the-art Structural Biology Core Facility , with a significant collaborative appointment in the Center for Therapeutic Discovery and Fischer Lab . This unique position offers an exciting opportunity for a talented Ph.D. scientist to leverage their advanced expertise in structural and protein biochemistry to play a critical role in advancing both core capabilities and research projects with a focus on drug discovery.

We seek a highly motivated research scientist to work with cross-functional teams to determine structures for novel targets and ligand-target pairs, including for large multi-protein complexes. Primary responsibilities include designing expression constructs, performing recombinant protein expression & purification in , protein characterization, crystallize or freeze protein samples, collect X-ray datasets, determine high-resolution structures, and analyze & present results.

Working under the guidance of the Core Director (Dhe-Paganon), the individual will primarily support projects from the CTD and Fischer laboratories. They will collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, biochemists and cell and chemical biologists from these labs, engage with colleagues in the Chemical Biology Program, and participate in departmental seminars.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

Responsibilities

• Protein expression & purification : Design and optimize strategies for recombinant protein production in various expression systems (bacterial, insect, mammalian) and execute multi-step chromatographic purification workflows for challenging targets.
• Structural & Biochemical Analysis : Apply advanced structural biology (X-ray crystallography) and biochemical techniques to elucidate the structure and function of protein complexes and their ligands.
• Data Analysis & Dissemination : Analyze complex datasets, present to & work with project teams to communicate results, maintain clear and accurate records of experimental work (e.g., experimental methods, results/findings)
• Independent Research Project Leadership : Design, execute, and interpret experiments to investigate the molecular mechanisms governing small molecule-protein interactions and to support structure based drug discovery.
• Method development : Identify, evaluate, and implement new technologies and methodologies to enhance core capabilities and efficiency.
• Mentorship : Provide scientific guidance and mentorship to junior lab members as appropriate.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Molecular Biology, Chemical Biology, or a closely related field is required.
• Postdoctoral experience (2+ years strongly preferred) with a strong publication record demonstrating independent research capabilities.
• Extensive hands-on expertise in advanced recombinant protein expression and purification using automated chromatography such as AKTA or Biorad (multi-gram scale experience a plus).
• Demonstrated ability to design, lead, and independently execute complex scientific projects.
• Prior experience with structural characterization of ligand-protein complexes is a plus
• Exceptional scientific communication skills, both written and oral, with a proven ability to present complex data clearly and concisely to diverse audiences.
• Strong collaborative spirit and ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams and matrixed environments.
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to work on multiple projects concurrently in a fast-paced and dynamic environment

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong. As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of cancer for all, we are equally committed to diversifying our faculty and staff. Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and diverse professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is an equal opportunity employer and affirms the right of every qualified applicant to receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.