Scientist/Principal Scientist - Expert in Peptide Sciences

About us

Coave Therapeutics is a pre-clinical-stage biotechnology company committed to developing groundbreaking gene therapies. Powered by its proprietary ALIGATER™ (Advanced Vectors-Ligand Conjugates) platform, Coave develops a novel class of AAV and LNP gene delivery systems with superior targeting, specificity, efficacy across a wide range of applications. Importantly, the platform streamlines manufacturing by eliminating the need for prior AAV capsid modifications. By overcoming critical challenges in delivering genetic payloads to extra-hepatic tissues, Coave is building a pipeline of innovative gene therapies aimed at transforming the treatment of rare and common diseases, with a particular focus on muscle, neuromuscular, and eye diseases.

Job Description

We are seeking for a highly motivated and experienced PhD or BS/MS’s-level Peptide Expert to lead and drive research and development efforts in the generation of peptides using both experimental and computational approaches to advance our internal peptide-conjugated vectors (AAV & LNP) discovery programs. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in peptide chemistry/science and synthesis and ideally completed with knowledge in other technology(ies) related to peptide design/optimization (phage display technologies, AI-driven peptide generation, in silico modeling). The successful candidate will communicate effectively with internal and external collaborators to achieve project objectives and will work efficiently in a multi-disciplinary team environment.

Key responsibilities

  • Contribute to scientific strategies and goals within a project team setting,
  • Lead and manage (outsourced activities) peptide design, optimization and synthesis
  • Lead and manage peptide generation projects (outsourced activities), utilizing phage display and/or other state-of-the-art peptide discovery technologies,
  • Lead and manage (externally) in silico simulations and molecular modeling to predict peptide-receptors interactions, stability, and binding affinities,
  • Analyze peptide data, identifying key patterns and opportunities for optimization,
  • Present data and reports on project status at individual and group meetings,
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to design and validate peptide-based candidates for various therapeutic applications,
  • Stay UpToDate with the latest research in peptide engineering, AI applications, and phage display technologies,
  • Contribute to the preparation of scientific reports, presentations, and publications and contribute to intellectual property generation.

Qualifications

  • PhD. or a BS/MS’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology or a related field (or equivalent industry experience) with a proven focus on peptide research and 5+ years of relevant experience,
  • Expertise in peptide design, optimization, synthesis, and characterization (mandatory skills),
  • Ideally knowledge in other technologies related to peptide generation/optimization:
    • phage display technology, including library construction, screening, and analysis,
    • in silico techniques for peptide modeling, molecular dynamics simulations, and structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis
    • AI approaches for peptide generation, optimization, and screening.
  • Ideally familiar with peptide-based therapeutic platforms (e.g., immunotherapy, antibody-drug conjugates),
  • Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and in collaborative team environments,
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to publish research findings and communicate complex scientific concepts effectively.

Why Join Us?

  • Be part of a pioneering team
  • Work in a collaborative and innovative environment
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development.