Scientist II, Peptide Drug Discovery
Explicitly calls out scripting beyond ad hoc 'vibe coding' and requires demonstrated use of AI tools; focuses on automation and AI/agent-driven workflows.
About the Role
Parabilis Medicines seeks a Scientist II to develop and scale AI-driven peptide discovery assays and automation for their Helicons™ platform. The role focuses on designing, optimizing, and productionizing biochemical and cell-based assays, implementing laboratory automation, and building script-based tools to generate decision-quality data for drug discovery.
Job Description
Role
Scientist II, Peptide Drug Discovery will advance and scale AI-driven peptide discovery programs by developing and improving experimental screening assays, implementing laboratory automation, and building script-based tools to support high-throughput mass-spec driven, multiplexed screening. The role collaborates cross-functionally to translate assay data into insights that guide Helicon optimization and drug discovery decisions.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, optimize, and productionize biochemical and cell-based assays to measure drug-like properties at scale.
- Implement and troubleshoot laboratory automation and robotics for assay execution and integration with digital/AI-driven automation.
- Develop reusable scripts and lightweight tools to automate experiment setup, tracking, QC, and reporting.
- Apply quantitative rigor to assay performance and data QC to produce decision-quality readouts and inform next experiments.
- Collaborate with chemistry, biology, and data teams to advance discovery programs.
Requirements
Required
- PhD in Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or a related discipline, with 2–4 years of postdoctoral and/or industry experience.
- Strong hands-on experience developing, optimizing, and executing biochemical, biophysical, and/or cell-based assays and scaling them into robust, reproducible formats.
- Quantitative approach to assay quality, controls, variability, robustness, and data QC.
- Demonstrated scripting and tool-building experience beyond ad hoc use, with examples of using code to automate analyses or workflows.
- Demonstrated use of AI tools in current role; advanced or innovative use is a plus.
- Ability to work cross-functionally and communicate clearly.
Preferred
- Experience improving lab throughput via automation or semi-automation, or strong aptitude to learn automation technologies.
- Familiarity with high-throughput screening concepts and scaling assay workflows.
- Working knowledge of peptide chemistry or peptide discovery concepts.
Compensation
The base salary range for this position is $120,000–$145,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. Total compensation includes an annual target bonus, equity, and a comprehensive suite of benefits.
Workplace and Culture
The position is part of a laboratory-focused team headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The company emphasizes a builder mindset, curiosity for emerging technologies, collaborative low-ego teamwork, and patient-focused impact.