Scientist/Senior Scientist, Protein Sciences

The Role

As a Scientist or Senior Scientist in Arda’s Protein Science group, you will design, characterize, and optimize cell-depleting biologics to accelerate our therapeutic programs. You’ll evaluate biochemical, biophysical, and cellular properties across formats including monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, and multispecifics. In close collaboration with in vivo and in vitro pharmacology teams, you’ll guide antibody optimization and candidate selection across a range of targets and cell types.

This is a high-impact role with the opportunity to shape program direction and advance novel therapies. In addition to competitive compensation, equity, and comprehensive benefits, we offer a flexible time-off policy and a collaborative, inclusive environment committed to scientific excellence.

In this role, you will:

• Generate, engineer, and characterize biologics against disease-relevant targets
• Interpret biochemical, biophysical, and cell-based data to guide lead optimization and candidate nomination
• Design, execute, and document experiments with rigor and clarity; maintain high-quality ELNs and communicate findings internally
• Develop and optimize assays to assess binding, potency, and stability (e.g. SPR, BLI, ELISA, MSD, flow cytometry)
• Plan and coordinate with in vitro/in vivo colleagues to meet program needs
• Manage CROs to ensure timely production of high-quality antibodies and proteins
• Scout, source, and adapt external antibody reagents for Arda’s internal use
• Stay current with emerging protein engineering and characterization technologies; help implement new tools and workflows
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to a culture of scientific rigor and collaboration

Qualifications

• PhD in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Protein Science, Structural Biology, or a related field
• ≥4 years of industry experience in biologics drug discovery
• Extensive experience engineering and characterizing antibodies, immune cell engaging bispecifics, and ADCs
• Expertise in biologics optimization strategies (e.g., Fc engineering, linker-payload design, format selection)
• Proficiency in analytical and functional assays (e.g., SPR, BLI, HPLC, ELISA, MSD, flow cytometry)
• Solid cell and molecular biology skills (cell culture, stable cell line generation, construct design) are a plus
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across disciplines and with external partners