Senior Scientist. Machine Learning (protein structure/design/function)

Employee

PUXANO is seeking a highly motivated and skilled research and development scientist with hands-on mentality that can build and steer a team focusing on the development of novel (generative) AI applications in the field of structural biology, protein engineering and structure-to-function prediction. The successful candidate will focus on the development and fine-tuning of open-source models for protein structure prediction and protein design similar as OpenFold, ProteinMPNN and Genie. 
Key Responsibilities:
 
1. Model Development and Improvement:
  • Conduct research on protein de novo prediction and protein design/engineering models, with an emphasis on the development of novel de novo prediction or diffusion-based protein design models or the enhancement of existing open-source models such as OpenFold and Genie.
  • Develop and implement algorithms to improve the accuracy and efficiency of protein structure predictions and protein design, including finding novel routes to score predictions to guide selection for experimental research.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate model improvements into PUXANO’s experimental validation platform, including CryoEM image processing workflows.
  • The development and evaluation of structure-to-function prediction algorithms.
 
2. Research and Innovation:
  • Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature and advancements in protein prediction, protein design and engineering, structure-to-function prediction.
  • Propose and lead innovative ML/DL research projects within PUXANO and in collaboration with external teams aimed at advancing PUXANO’s Gene-to-Structure or Design-to-Structure capabilities and offerings.
 
3. Collaboration and Communication:
  • Work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders, including Pharma and Biotech partners.
  • Communicate complex technical concepts effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Contribute to grant writing and funding proposals to support ongoing research initiatives.
 
Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. in Computer Science, Physics, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Structural Biology, or a related field.
  • Strong background in machine learning and deep learning techniques, if possible in the context of protein science.
  • Experience in using HPC resources and training models on GPU clusters (e.g. EuroHPC).
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, and deep learning frameworks like Tensorflow, Pytorch, and other related tools.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and a track record of innovative research.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary environment.
 
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM).
  • Knowledge of structural bioinformatics and molecular dynamics simulations.
  • Previous experience in the Pharma or Biotech industry.
 
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume, including a GitHub link showcasing computational work, a cover letter, and contact information for three references (including technical references for questions) to careers@puxano.com. Candidates without demonstrable expertise in ML/DL through GitHub or contributions to ML/DL scientific papers will not be considered.
PUXANO is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Application Deadline: February 15 2026
Join PUXANO and be a part of a pioneering team that’s shaping the future of protein design and structure-based protein research!