Scientist/Sr Scientist - DNA Coded Library (DEL) Selection

At Enko we believe that to create the future the world wants, we need to change the way the world grows. Our goal is not just to create something better, but to play a part in something bigger. Enko discovers and develops novel products for farmers to protect their crops from pests and disease.

Scientist, DEL Selection

We are seeking a motivated and talented Selection Scientist to join our DNA Encoded Library (DEL) team. This individual will play a key role in the design, execution, and optimization of DEL selections (affinity-based screens) against a wide range of biological targets to support small molecule discovery programs. The successful candidate will work in a multidisciplinary environment and collaborate closely with chemists, biochemists, computational scientists, and biologists to identify and advance novel hit molecules.

What You'll Do

• Design, execute, and troubleshoot DEL affinity selections against protein targets of interest, including soluble proteins, membrane-associated targets, and challenging target classes
• Develop and optimize selection protocols, including matrix/bead-based selections, cell-based selections, and other emerging selection formats
• Perform protein biochemistry and biophysical characterization to ensure target quality and suitability for DEL selections (e.g., activity assays, DSF/thermal stability, SEC, BLI)
• Prepare and QC DNA encoded libraries for selection campaigns, including library pooling strategies and library performance assessments
• Prepare and QC materials from completed DEL selections for NGS sequencing
• Analyze and interpret selection output data in collaboration with computational and informatics teams to identify high-quality hit series
• Maintain detailed electronic laboratory notebook records and present results at internal meetings and project team discussions
• Stay current with DEL literature, emerging methodologies, and new technologies; contribute to innovation and continuous improvement of the DEL platform
• Contribute to the development of novel selection strategies and next-generation DEL technologies, including encoded library synthesis approaches
• Collaborate across departments—including chemistry, biochemistry, biology, computational chemistry and data analytics to develop hit packages and recommendations for optimization of hits
• Support the evaluation and integration of new tools, reagents, and automation to enhance throughput and data quality

About You

• Education: Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or a related discipline with 0-3 years of relevant industry experience; OR M.S. with 5+ years / B.S. with 8+ years of relevant industry experience
• Hands-on experience with DNA encoded library technology, including selection design and execution, and data analysis
• Strong foundation in protein biochemistry and molecular biology techniques
• Experience with biophysical and biochemical assay development (e.g., SPR, ELISA, AlphaScreen, FP, DSF, SEC)
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, and troubleshoot complex experiments
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret multidimensional datasets
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to present scientific findings clearly to multidisciplinary teams
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
• Collaborative mindset and ability to thrive in a team-oriented, matrixed organization

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in an industry setting
• Deep understanding of DEL design principles
• Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation, sequencing workflows, and data processing
• Knowledge of hit-to-lead workflows in small-molecule drug discovery
• Experience with automation platforms and high-throughput screening technologies
• Background in structural biology or biophysics as it relates to target-ligand interactions
• Programming/scripting experience (e.g., Python, R) for data analysis is a plus
• Experience with cell-based or phenotypic DEL selection formats
• Track record of publications or presentations in the DEL or chemical biology field

Why Work at Enko?

• Our products address a $70 billion core market focused on crop health with expansion into adjacent markets worth $300+ billion.
• We have $150 million in capitalization, with $80 million raised as part of a Series C raise.
• Our global investors include Anterra Capital, Nufarm, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Eight Roads Ventures, Finistere Ventures, Rabo Food & Agri Innovation Fund, Novalis LifeSciences, Syngenta, TaherGozal, Germin8 Ventures, TO Ventures Food, Endeavor8, Connecticut Innovations, Silver Blue LLC, and Alumni Ventures Group.
• Our headquarters and research facility in Mystic, CT has 90,000 square feet of state-of-the-art labs and computer-controlled greenhouses built for pre-field experimentation and scale.

Enko is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Compensation Package:

• Bonus opportunities
• Stock options

Ability to Relocate:

• Mystic, CT 06355: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person