Lead Scientist Synthetic Biologist

We are seeking a Lead Scientist to lead our DNA-to-protein workflow and build the molecular capabilities that support our crop protection discovery programs. You will combine hands-on synthetic biology with ownership of outsourced DNA production, high-throughput protein production, and cell-free expression platform development. Your work will deliver high-quality proteins quickly, reproducibly, and cost-effectively for biological testing.

Working with the lead plant scientist, computational and experimental teams, executive leadership, and external partners, you will translate program priorities into practical workflows, address technical constraints, and improve the performance of our protein production platform. This role combines independent laboratory work with training and supervision of research associates.

This is a full time, in office role located at our Madison Wisconsin facility. Email Careers@quercusbio.com with your cover letter and resume. 

·  Design DNA constructs and manage external DNA synthesis vendors and contract research organizations to meet program timelines, quality standards, and cost objectives.

·  Oversee DNA receipt, quality control, normalization, and archiving to support reliable downstream expression.

·  Develop, optimize, and run cell-free and recombinant protein expression workflows for small-scale, high-throughput production.

·  Improve protein yield, solubility, quality, and reproducibility; troubleshoot expression failures and other workflow bottlenecks.

·  Develop automated liquid handling workflows and use experimental design and data analysis to improve throughput and efficiency.

·  Establish and document standard operating procedures, track performance metrics, and maintain rigorous experimental records.

·  Identify technology and process constraints, evaluate new approaches, and implement improvements that support long-term platform development.

·  M.S. or Ph.D. in synthetic biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, chemical engineering, or a related discipline.

·  At least five years of relevant laboratory experience; Ph.D. research may count toward this requirement.

·  Hands-on experience with cell-free protein expression, recombinant protein production, and contemporary molecular biology techniques, including DNA construct design.

·  Experience developing robust, high-throughput laboratory workflows, with a working knowledge of protein biochemistry and purification fundamentals.

·  Strong experimental design and troubleshooting skills, including design of experiments and data analysis using Excel and/or Python.

·  Ability to work independently, collaborate across scientific disciplines and external organizations, and guide a small laboratory team.

·  Excellent attention to detail, scientific rigor, and a process-oriented approach to improving quality and reproducibility.

·  Industry experience in synthetic biology, protein engineering, or a related field.

·  Experience with laboratory automation, liquid handling systems, and laboratory information management systems.

·  Experience across multiple systems for small-scale, high-throughput recombinant protein production.

·  A record of scientific productivity demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications and/or published patent applications.

·  Process-oriented with excellent attention to detail.

·  Result driven.

·  Continuous improvement mindset for self, team and process.

·  Collaborative and able to work across computational and experimental teams.

·  Intrinsically motivated and takes initiative.

Quercus Biosolutions is an early-stage, venture-backed biotech company using generative AI to design and engineer novel mini-proteins with potent, targeted biological activity. Our first products focus on crop protection, where we are building a pipeline of next-generation bioherbicides at the intersection of protein engineering, AI, and agriculture.

Join the team and help shape the science, platform capabilities, and technical strategy behind a new generation of protein-based crop protection products. We offer a competitive benefits package, including a monthly health allowance, PTO, a 401(k) with company match, and a significant equity opportunity. Salary range is $120,000 - $150,000, We are looking for a curious, self-directed scientist who enjoys hands-on experimentation, values collaboration, and thrives as priorities evolve. You will have the opportunity to connect advances in synthetic biology and AI-driven protein design with practical applications in agriculture.