Associate Scientist, Display Technologies

Description

At Big Hat we believe in titles that commensurate with skill set, relative organizational impact, and value contribution; more experienced candidates are encouraged to apply, with the understanding that responsibilities and title would adjust as appropriate.

Lab Science

San Mateo, CA

Big Hat Biosciences is seeking a curious and motivated Associate Scientist to join the Display Technologies team. This individual will contribute to Big Hat’s antibody discovery and engineering efforts and help generate high-quality data to improve Big Hat’s machine learning models using display technologies, working closely with senior scientists and cross‑functional teams.

• Support R&D projects advancing display technologies at Big Hat that expands Big Hat's antibody discovery capabilities and feed its ML models.
• Lead in the construction and QC of phage and yeast display libraries across diverse antibody formats (VHH, scFv, Fab) using standard molecular biology techniques (PCR, molecular cloning, electroporation).
• Execute phage and yeast display selections using naive and affinity and stability maturation libraries to discover and engineer antibodies with desired therapeutic properties.
• Express, purify, and characterize display‑derived molecules using assays including ELISA, flow cytometry, BLI/SPR, CE‑SDS, and others.
• Analyze selection results and contribute to discussions on next steps and future experimental design.
• Collaborate with Big Hat’s Data Science and Machine Learning teams to inform library design and interpret selection data for model training.
• Present experimental plans and results during regular meetings with manager and science teams.
• Maintain thorough records using LIMS and electronic notebooks.

• BS or MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field.
• 4+ years of hands‑on laboratory experience (academic or industry); relevant internship or research experience welcome.
• Familiarity with general molecular biology techniques (PCR, molecular cloning, gel electrophoresis).
• Exposure to antibody biology, display technologies (phage or yeast), and protein expression.
• Demonstrated ability to follow protocols carefully, troubleshoot experiments, and maintain detailed lab records.
• Effective time management and clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Collaborative, team‑oriented mindset with an eagerness to learn in a fast‑paced startup environment.
• Nice‑to‑haves include experience with flow cytometry, ELISA, or other binding assays, and familiarity with NGS or automation platforms.

The salary estimated for this position is $120,000 - $135,000 + bonus + options + benefits. Compensation will vary depending on job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience. Actual compensation will be confirmed in writing at the time of the offer.

• Range of health insurance plan options through Anthem and Kaiser (monthly credit if benefit waived)
• Dental and vision coverage through Guardian
• Additional well‑being benefits through Nayya, One Medical, Wagmo, Rula, and more
• 401(k) with company match
• DTO, two weeks of company‑wide shutdown, and 12 company holidays
• Paid parental leave