Principal Scientist

Principal Scientist - Antibody Discovery The Opportunity The heart of Prellis Bio’s strategy is the combination of novel, cutting edge methods in machine learning, biology at scale and next gen antibody discovery that address long-standing industry-wide problems in the drug development pipeline. Prellis Biologics uses proprietary technology to 3D print human lymph node organoids enabling the rapid & diverse discovery of human antibody therapeutic candidates for a range of applications. To drive this forward, we are assembling an incredible team of discovery biologists, computational scientists, and protein scientists who want to make a difference to this important problem. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Principal Scientist in the field of Antibody Discovery, NGS and Molecular Biology to lead innovative research and development initiatives. You will play a key role in identifying Prellis’ large molecule therapeutics by supporting various discovery and non-GLP preclinical studies. You will also be responsible to supervise lab staff, recruit staff, and manage outside service partnerships. You will report to the CSO and work at our headquarters in Berkeley, CA. Your primary responsibilities will include :
Antibody discovery: The candidate will lead a team of scientists on Prellis’ breakthrough EXIS (lymph node organoid) platform, novel 10X and Single B-cell cloning methods, combined with NGS to discover antibodies for a range of portfolio therapeutic targets.
Molecular biology: The candidate will contribute to innovation in molecular biology of antibody cloning, expression, and generation of NGS libraries.
Data analysis: The candidate will utilize advanced bioinformatics tools and techniques to analyze large NGS datasets, including V-genes, and B-cell transcriptomic for antibody discovery and development. The ability to use antibody sequence data and associated properties to train predictive and generative ML-models will be considered as a plus.
Mentorship: Provide guidance to Ph.D. and non-Ph.D. scientists in immunology, data science, and molecular biology.
Collaboration: The ability to multi-task and manage multiple projects, whilst working closely with data scientists, immunologists, protein engineers, and molecular biologists to translate bioinformatics findings into actionable insights for therapeutic development. Lead cross-functional teams to achieve project goals.
Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills with a high degree of motivation, creativity and collaborative qualities. Present research findings clearly and effectively to internal stakeholders. Prepare detailed reports and presentations. You will join a growing and well-positioned a pre-IPO biotech startup that is very much in formation. Anticipate a lot can change in this early and exciting phase, providing many opportunities for significant impact. You will work with a very experienced leadership team, learn a broad range of skills, and help shape Prellis Bio's culture, strategic direction, and outcomes. Join us and help make a difference to patients! About You
Education: Ph.D. in molecular biology, immunology, bioinformatics, or a related field.
Experience: Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, or a related field with 3-4 years of relevant experience within an academic or industrial setting; or Master’s degree and 5 years of relevant experience within an academic or industrial setting; or Bachelor’s degree and 7 years of relevant experience within an academic or industrial setting
Technical Skills: Proficiency in antibody discovery techniques, B-cell biology, and therapeutic development processes. Experience with bioinformatics tools for antibody sequence analysis, structural modeling, and machine learning applications. Knowledge in programming languages such as Python or R for data analysis will be a plus.
Soft Skills: Strong problem-solving abilities, excellent communication skills, and the capacity to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team. About Prellis Biologics At Prellis we integrate human biology with machine learning. We aim to revolutionized drug discovery by harnessing the power of human immune system with tightly, integrated machine learning to develop next-generation antibody therapeutics with unparalleled speed, precision and safety. We are committed to empowering our pharmaceutical partners with access to the most promising fully human body candidate rapidly identified from the human immune repertoire, enabling them to bring life-changing treatments to patients faster than ever before. Prellis Biologics is a pre-IPO biotech located in Berkeley CA with a team-oriented, inclusive, and family-friendly culture. Our growing pipeline target high unmet patient needs across therapeutics including metabolic, inflammation, and oncology disease. Prellis has raised funding from top investors, including Celesta, Khosla Ventures, SOSV, & Avidity Partners. What you can expect of us As we work to develop treatments that take care of others, we also work to care for your professional and personal growth and well-being. From our competitive benefits to our collaborative culture, we’ll support your journey every step of the way. Actual salary will vary based on several factors including but not limited to, relevant skills, experience, and qualifications. In addition to the base salary, Prellis offers compelling benefits based on eligibility, comprising of health and welfare plans for staff and eligible dependents, financial plans with opportunities to save towards retirement or other goals, work/life balance, and career development opportunities that may include:
A competitive employee benefits package, including group medical, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts an a 401(k) plan
Stock-based long term incentives
Holiday package including a 1+ week winter shutdown
Flexible work models, including remote and hybrid working arrangements, where possible Application deadline Prellis does not have an application deadline for this position; we will continue accepting applications until we receive a sufficient number or select a candidate for the position. Prellis Bio is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. We believe diversity, equity, and inclusion need to be at the foundation of our culture. We work hard to bring together diverse teams–grounded in a wide range of expertise and life experiences–and work even harder to ensure those teams thrive in inclusive, growth-oriented environments supported by equitable company and team practices. All candidates can expect equitable treatment, respect, and fairness throughout the interview process.