Research Associate Co-Op, Protein Biochemistry

At Keros, our mission is to deliver significant clinical benefit to a wide range of patients with disorders that are linked to dysfunctional signaling of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-ß) family of proteins. With a focus on developing differentiated product candidates that are designed to alter TGF-β signaling, we aim to target the pathways critical for the growth, repair and maintenance of blood cells and a number of tissues, including bone, skeletal muscle, adipose and heart tissue. We believe our product candidates have the potential to unlock the full therapeutic benefits of modulating the TGF-β superfamily and provide disease-modifying benefit to patients.

Job Summary: Keros Therapeutics is seeking a highly motivated and collaborative individual to join our protein biochemistry group within our Research Department. Our group exploits multidisciplinary approaches in protein sciences and protein engineering, to better the understanding of the biochemical, biophysical, and structural functional properties of the biomolecules within the TGF-β superfamily that drive the signaling pathway. Our efforts greatly contribute to advance innovative research and drug discovery and heavily support our discovery pipeline.

You will have the opportunity to learn about early-stage drug discovery from a protein chemistry perspective as well as through internal and external collaboration with other departments.  You will play an important role supporting in vivo and in vitro studies crucial for the progress of our therapeutic research programs by generating high-quality proteins and other reagents in this hands-on laboratory position. The successful candidate will produce and evaluate novel molecules, while being inquisitive about science, able to troubleshoot by consulting literature/colleagues, and capable of adapting to each scientific challenge.

Primary Responsibilities

• Design novel protein molecules and variants, leveraging computational and molecular biology approaches to optimize functional properties and achieve desired binding characteristics.
• Support protein production efforts, including expression in mammalian systems, purification to achieve high quality reagents using FPLC, affinity, ion-exchange, and SEC chromatography, and continuous optimization of production methods for novel biomolecules.
• Develop and optimize a comprehensive suite of protein characterization assays and techniques, including cell-based, SPR, BLI, SDS-PAGE, analytical SEC, and HPLC, to rigorously evaluate and select promising lead molecules.
• Ensure accurate documentation of all computational and experimental laboratory work within electronic lab notebooks and study reports.
• Effectively communicate research findings through presentations and written reports at research meetings.

Core Competencies (Required Skills)

• Demonstrated interest in protein sciences and/or computational biology.
• Experience with structural biology and modeling techniques. Familiarity with protein engineering principles and methodologies. Knowledge of protein chemistry and protein-protein interactions.
• Strong foundation in wet lab techniques, including basic lab etiquette, pipetting, and volumetric handling. Ability to perform chemical stoichiometric calculations and prepare buffers accurately.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within a cross-functional team and work independently with appropriate supervision.

Preferred Skills

• Understanding the application of machine learning to protein engineering is a plus.
• Experience in protein purification using multi-platform chromatography techniques (e.g., affinity, ion-exchange, SEC). Familiarity with biophysical methods for protein characterization.
• Exhibit excellent communication and organization skills, detail-oriented, proficient in MS office, data analysis, and slide presentation.
• Displays a high degree of maturity, honesty, trust, and integrity. Views scientific problems/questions as opportunities for innovation and intellectual growth.
• Previous co-op or internship experience in a relevant field is a plus.

Education Requirements

• Enrolled in a Master's program in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, or a related field (enrollment needs to be active for the full length of the co-op)

This pay range represents the base hourly rate or base annual full-time salary for all positions in the job grade within which this position falls. The actual base salary offer will depend on a variety of factors including experience, education, and other relevant factors. 

Potential base pay range$28—$32 USD

Our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Mission Statement:  Keros is an inclusive company.  We believe that diversity drives innovation.  We continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the diverse voices of our employees.  As such, Keros takes a holistic approach in mentoring, coaching, and developing all of our Keros team members.

Keros Therapeutics is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Recruitment & Staffing Agencies:
Keros Therapeutics does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than the candidate directly.  Any unsolicited submission by an agency to Keros is prohibited.  Any resume submitted by an agency without a signed contract or expressed consent by a member of the Keros Therapeutics Human Resources Department, will be considered property of Keros Therapeutics, and no fee shall be owed with respect thereto.