Synthetic Biologist

Overview:

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary:

The Bioengineering Division is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Synthetic Biologist to join a team developing cutting-edge biotechnology solutions for our Synthetic Biology R&D program area in our Kendall Square location. The ideal candidate will be fluent in the design, construction, and optimization of engineered biological systems in both bacterial and mammalian hosts, and drive the development of novel genetic circuits, and metabolic pathways. This technical position requires wet-lab work as well as collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to analyze data, presentation of findings, and brainstorming new ideas. The position also requires teamwork, tenacity and attention to detail. We offer an atmosphere that fosters innovation, a supportive team environment, intellectual freedom and creativity, and an emphasis on career development.

Required:
 Ph.D. with 5+ years of research experience, or master degree with 10+ years of experience in Synthetic Biology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, or a related field
 Hands on experience designing and implementing synthetic circuits in both bacterial (e.g., E. coli, B. subtilis) or mammalian (e.g., CHO, HEK 293, primary cells) systems
 Experience in metabolic pathway engineering, and high-throughput screening
· Interest in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and willingness to brainstorm on topics outside your area of research
· Ability to work independently, but as part of a wider team
· Willingness to mentor both senior and junior research colleagues
· Excellent communication, presentation and organizational skills
· Interest in writing proposals/grants and participating in the formation of new programs to solve the nation’s most challenging problems

Preferred:
 Publications in high‑impact journals or patents in synthetic biology
 Knowledge of bioprocess scale‑up (bioreactors, fed‑batch, perfusion) for microbial and mammalian production
 Familiarity with AI‑driven protein design and enzyme engineering
 Demonstrated ability to communicate ideas in proposal/grant formats

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities

• Drive solutions to complex problems with limited direction.

• Contribute to the development of innovative bioengineering solutions, propose ways forward, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements.

• Able to provide insight and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes.

• Actively mentor less experienced bioengineers and provide thoughtful, constructive feedback.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills/Abilities

• Strong foundation in biology and/or engineering principles.

• Team player, dedicated, collaborative, observant, and motivated.

• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and verbal and written communication skills.

• Creative problem-solving skills and a passion for innovation.

• Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines and prioritize tasks.

• Enthusiasm for learning and participating in mentorship/mentoring.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Applications.

Education

• A minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Cell Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics or related fields is required, a PhD is preferred.

Experience

• Requires 5+ years of Bioengineering or related engineering experience.

Additional Job Description:

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.

Job Location - City:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563

The US base salary range for this full-time position is

$82,300.00 - $220,000.00

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.  Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact [email protected].