Job Description
Associate Scientist, Display Technologies
Department: Lab Science
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: San Mateo, CA
The role: BigHat Biosciences is seeking a curious and motivated Associate Scientist to join the Display Technologies team. This individual will contribute to BigHat’s antibody discovery and engineering efforts and help generate high-quality data to improve BigHat’s machine learning models using display technologies, working closely with senior scientists and cross-functional teams.
*At BigHat we believe in titles that commensurate with skill set, relative organizational impact, and value contribution; more experienced candidates are encouraged to apply, with the understanding that responsibilities and title would adjust as appropriate.
Key Responsibilities
- Support R&D projects advancing display technologies at BigHat that expands BigHat's antibody discovery capabilities and feed its ML models.
- Lead in the construction and QC of phage and yeast display libraries across diverse antibody formats (VHH, scFv, Fab) using standard molecular biology techniques (PCR, molecular cloning, electroporation).
- Execute phage and yeast display selections using naive and affinity and stability maturation libraries to discover and engineer antibodies with desired therapeutic properties.
- Express, purify, and characterize display-derived molecules using assays including ELISA, flow cytometry, BLI/SPR, CE-SDS, and others.
- Analyze selection results and contribute to discussions on next steps and future experimental design.
- Collaborate with BigHat’s Data Science and Machine Learning teams to inform library design and interpret selection data for model training.
- Present experimental plans and results during regular meetings with manager and science teams.
- Maintain thorough records using LIMS and electronic notebooks.
Skills Knowledge and Expertise
- BS or MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field.
- 4+ years of hands-on laboratory experience (academic or industry); relevant internship or research experience welcome.
- Familiarity with general molecular biology techniques (PCR, molecular cloning, gel electrophoresis).
- Exposure to antibody biology, display technologies (phage or yeast), and protein expression.
- Demonstrated ability to follow protocols carefully, troubleshoot experiments, and maintain detailed lab records.
- Effective time management and clear written and verbal communication skills.
- Collaborative, team-oriented mindset with an eagerness to learn in a fast-paced startup environment.
- Nice-to-haves include experience with flow cytometry, ELISA, or other binding assays, and familiarity with NGS or automation platforms.
Total Rewards
The salary estimated for this position is $120,000 - $135,000 + bonus + options + benefits. Compensation will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Actual compensation will be confirmed in writing at the time of the offer.
What BigHat Offers:
- Range of health insurance plan options through Anthem and Kaiser (monthly credit if benefit waived)
- Dental, and vision coverage through Guardian
- Additional well-being benefits through Nayya, OneMedical, Wagmo, Rula, and more
- 401(k) with company match
- DTO, two weeks of company-wide shutdown, and 12 company holidays
- Paid parental leave
