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Job Title: Senior Scientist Computational BiologistJob Description

In this computational biology role, you will be part of the antibody engineering group with a focus on cancer therapeutics. You will apply deep learning and physics-based models to design and optimize monoclonal and bispecific antibodies. The role combines physics-based and emerging AI/ML approaches to analyze structural and NGS data, guiding structure prediction, engineering for affinity and developability, and display library design. This position involves approximately 90% computational work and 10% bench work, requiring a self-motivated individual who thrives in collaborative, interdisciplinary environments.

Responsibilities

+ Contribute to the development of computational methods to engineer and optimize monoclonal and bispecific antibody therapeutics for cancer treatment.

+ Review literature, apply and benchmark computational methods, especially emerging deep-learning methods, for antibody engineering and optimization.

+ Integrate multiple deep-learning tools and physics-based models to guide structure prediction, engineer affinity and developability, and design display libraries to support lead identification and optimization.

+ Use Python to create bioinformatics and ML tools that automate workflows, including molecular cloning and data analysis.

+ Perform up to 10% of molecular cloning work at the lab bench.

Essential Skills

+ Strong knowledge in structural biology with hands-on experience with protein structural prediction and design tools (e.g., MOE, AlphaFold, RosettaFold).

+ Intermediate proficiency in Python programming and experience using Python libraries for data analysis and ML training.

+ Project experience and hands-on analysis with bioinformatics tools and software for NGS data analysis.

+ Passion for learning; self-motivated and able to work independently, while also possessing strong interpersonal skills to contribute effectively in highly collaborative research environments.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

+ Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Biophysics, Protein Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Computational Biology, Machine Learning, Statistics, Computer Science, or a related field with 0–3 years of postdoctoral experience, or a Master’s degree in a similar technical discipline with at least 5 years of experience.

+ Experience with other programming languages, such as VBA and R, is a plus.

+ Experience applying experimental data (e.g., affinity, stability, solubility) to optimize protein affinity, developability, and function.

+ Experience with the latest deep-learning methods in protein engineering, such as ESMFold, ProteinMPNN, and RFDiffusion.

+ Experience with de novo design of antibodies and nanobodies.

+ Publication record demonstrating computational biology or protein engineering experience.

Work Environment

This role involves approximately 90% computational work and 10% bench work. The ideal candidate thrives in collaborative, interdisciplinary environments and is open to working 1-2 days a week from home. The company is mid-sized and offers many exciting products in the pipeline.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Rockville, MD.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $44.00 - $70.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Rockville,MD.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jan 26, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.