Heptares is a Drug Discovery Company working on G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) involved in CNS and metabolic diseases. Our unique structure-based approach in discovering therapeutic agents for these diseases relies on a proprietary technology to stabilize GPCRs, enabling their purification for structural and biophysical studies.  The company works in collaboration with major global pharmaceutical companies on both small molecule and antibody discovery programmes; and is also developing its own pipeline of proprietary molecules. The most advanced of these are now in clinical studies with others moving towards clinical development.

We are currently seeking an experienced protein biochemist to grow and lead our newly established protein biochemistry group at our site in Zurich working towards GPCR structure determination to enable drug discovery efforts.

The successful candidate will be expected to work independently and manage staff, and the role will include the following responsibilities:

• Lead and line manage staff of the protein biochemistry group
  • Initial hands-on experience is required.
• Grow the team from currently 2 FTEs to 5 FTEs by 2020
• Train and teach junior staff and set individual and group objectives
• Close interaction with protein biochemistry group in the UK
• Coordinate requirements with HZ Management
• Coordination of work and QC to guarantee transfer of protein for crystallization 
• Careful documentation of experimental work; and,
• Work closely with molecular biologists, protein expression scientists, crystallographers and pharmacologists to help advance the multidisciplinary drug development projects
• Develop and optimize local protein QC capabilities – establish local opportunities

Groups responsibilities are:

• Characterization of GPCRs expression in membrane and in solubilized form;
• Coordination of material requirements between expression and purification
• Construct engineering to optimize GPCRs for crystallization;
• Purification of GPCRs and biochemical characterization using a range of analytical techniques such as size exclusion chromatography - develop and optimize processes
• Progression of purified material into crystallization

Our preferred candidate will have the following profile:

• PhD in biochemistry or related discipline;
• Proven ability to grow, teach and lead a team (PhD level and technician)
• Experienced in molecular biology
• Experienced in membrane protein expression methods in mammalian and insect cells;
• Experienced in membrane protein purification using AEKTA Pure systems;
• Excellent knowledge of protein QC and troubleshooting
• Experienced in preparation of protein for membrane protein crystallization (lipidic cubic phase and vapor diffusion);
• Experience in setting up crystallization using automated systems would be an advantage;
• Ability to work flexibly within a team whilst being highly self-motivated and work independently;
• Analytical thinking and good problem-solving skills;
• Excellent organizational and time management skills as well as the ability to work to strict deadlines;
• Experienced in hands-on teaching and training of junior staff
• Fluency in oral and written English; a knowledge of German is preferred

This is an exceptional opportunity to participate in growing and shaping our site new site in Zurich.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with qualifications and experience. 

Further information can be found on our website (www.heptares.com). Applications should be in pdf format and include a covering letter, your CV, any work certificates of your previous employers, education diplomas as well as the names and contact details for two referees. Apply for this position using the following link https://www.heptares.com/careers/, quoting reference number 2018_2HZ. The closing date for applications is 5th of May 2018.