Scientist / Senior Scientist, Protein Engineering

Description

Kodiak Sciences Inc. is a fast-growing, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on transforming ophthalmology through innovative therapeutics. Our Antibody Biopolymer Conjugate Drug (ABCD) platform integrates protein and peptide engineering & discovery, polymer chemistry, small molecule drug discovery, bioconjugation, and drug delivery technologies to address high-prevalence ophthalmic diseases.

We are seeking a talented Scientist/Senior Scientist to advance peptide therapeutic drug discovery and development programs with a strong emphasis on molecular design, organic synthesis, and analytical characterization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, synthesis, and optimization of peptide-based therapeutics, integrating Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) considerations, developability and conjugation strategies to drive candidate progression.
• Perform hands-on experimental work including, but not limited to DNA-Encoded Library synthesis, Macrocyclic and Linear Peptide synthesis, polymer conjugation chemistry, purification and analytical evaluation, data interpretation and developability risk assessment.
• Develop and apply analytical and biophysical methods (e.g., LC-MS, HPLC, NMR, SEC, DLS) to characterize peptides and bioconjugates, including purity, heterogeneity, stability, and aggregation.
• Collaborate cross-functionally and communicate scientific findings through presentations, reports, and regulatory documentation.

Education / Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field, with either (i) 0-3 years of relevant postdoctoral experience and at least one first-author publication in a high-impact, peer-reviewed journal (preferred), or (ii) 3+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Experience working with either of the following methodologies, such as Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis (SPPS), DNA-Encoded Library (DEL) synthesis, liquid phase parallel synthesis and/or polymer-based bioconjugates is highly desirable.
• Strong experience in therapeutic development of peptides, and/or conjugated biologics, experience in analytical characterization is a plus.
• Proficiency in chromatographic and mass spectrometry-based techniques, with an understanding of developability attributes such as stability, solubility, and manufacturability is a plus.
• Experience in using software such as PyMol, MOE, Schrödinger, Maestro, DataWarrior, Vortex is a plus.
• Experience with CD and/or FTIR for peptide secondary structure determination is a plus.
• Hands-on experience with biochemical assays, including SPR, ELISA, fluorescence-based assays, is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to independently drive scientific work in a collaborative, cross-functional environment, with strong problem-solving and communication skills.