Associate Scientist - Protein Sciences

Role Overview

We are looking for two diligent and motivated Associate Scientists to join our Protein Sciences team at NUVO Labs Pvt. Ltd. (Meril Group) located in Vapi, Gujarat. This full-time onsite role involves supporting early-stage drug discovery programs by conducting and analyzing biophysical and biochemical studies related to protein-ligand interactions, as well as recombinant protein production and characterization.

Primary Responsibilities

• Design, perform, and optimize biophysical assays to study protein interactions with small molecules and peptides, determining parameters like binding affinity, kinetics, and thermodynamics.
• Conduct biochemical assays to evaluate protein activity and effects of ligand binding, ensuring data quality and assay reproducibility tailored for drug discovery.
• Produce and purify recombinant proteins using suitable expression systems and chromatographic methods, assessing purity, homogeneity, and stability.
• Refine protein production and purification protocols to enhance yield and consistency for downstream applications.
• Carry out cell-based assays to explore the functional impact of small molecules or peptides, integrating data from biophysical and biochemical assays to inform interpretation.
• Analyze experimental results using quantitative and statistical approaches, preparing detailed documentation, reports, and presentations to communicate findings effectively within interdisciplinary teams.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, uphold safety protocols, and assist in the upkeep of lab equipment and workflows.
• Collaborate actively with colleagues across protein sciences, biology, and medicinal chemistry to support project timelines and drive continuous laboratory improvement.

Qualifications and Experience

• PhD in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biophysics, Structural Biology, Molecular Biology, or related fields.
• Between 0 and 2 years of postdoctoral research relevant to the role.

Essential Skills

• Practical experience with biophysical and/or biochemical assays investigating protein interactions with small molecules or peptides.
• Hands-on skills in recombinant protein expression, purification, and characterization techniques.
• Competence in quantitative data analysis, experimental controls, and ensuring reproducibility.
• Strong experimental skills, attention to detail, and ability to resolve technical challenges.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with surface plasmon resonance (SPR), biolayer interferometry (BLI), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), microscale thermophoresis (MST), fluorescence binding assays, or related biophysical methods.
• Knowledge of enzyme kinetics, thermal-shift assays, and functional activity assays.
• Experience performing cell-based assays evaluating protein function or ligand-mediated biological responses.
• Familiarity with FPLC purification and protein quality assessment.
• Understanding of protein stability, aggregation, and protein-ligand interaction principles.

Desired Personal Attributes

• A methodical and hands-on approach with data-driven experimentation.
• Strong analytical thinking and eagerness to learn new experimental techniques.
• Ability to conduct experiments independently while effectively collaborating in multidisciplinary teams.
• Scientific curiosity, responsibility, and dedication to producing reliable and reproducible results.