Head of Biocatalysis

About

As Head of Biocatalysis you will define and lead the enzyme-enabled technology strategy across oligonucleotide, starting material, and small-molecule processes. You will build internal protein discovery, engineering, and screening capabilities and partner with external organizations to advance robust, scalable biocatalytic solutions. You will translate biocatalytic concepts into manufacturable processes, collaborating across Process Chemistry, CMC, Manufacturing, Quality, and Regulatory. This role offers strategic impact in a biotech setting, with opportunities to shape novel biocatalytic syntheses and enzyme-driven workflows. You will lead in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead the biocatalysis strategy across starting materials, oligonucleotides, and small molecule processes
• Identify opportunities for biocatalyst substitution, new enzymatic chemistry, and improved synthetic routes
• Lead enzyme discovery, engineering, screening, and optimization through internal capabilities and external partnerships
• Establish internal protein screening and engineering capabilities (design, expression, purification, characterization, and reaction screening)
• Drive biocatalytic applications for oligonucleotide synthesis and small molecule process development
• Collaborate with Process Chemistry, CMC, Manufacturing, Quality, and Regulatory to translate concepts into scalable processes
• Manage strategic collaborations with academic institutions, CROs/CDMOs, and enzyme discovery/engineering companies
• Evaluate emerging technologies and external opportunities in biocatalysis, protein engineering, and biocatalyst manufacturing
• Serve as technical authority for biocatalysis, providing scientific guidance and risk assessments to senior stakeholders

Qualifications

• PhD in a related discipline and minimum 12 years of relevant experience in biocatalysis or related fields within pharma/biotech/CDMO settings
• Proven track record discovering, engineering, screening, or implementing enzymes for synthetic or manufacturing applications
• Strong understanding of enzyme and reaction screening, protein design/engineering, expression/purification/characterization, biotransformation, and process development/scale-up

Benefits

• Medical coverage
• Dental coverage
• Vision coverage
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance
• Lifestyle reimbursement program
• Flexible spending accounts
• Health savings accounts
• 401(k) with generous company match
• Paid time off
• Wellness days
• Holidays
• Recharge breaks