Senior Research Associate / Associate Scientist, Protein Sciences at Marengo Therapeutics Inc – Cambridge, Massachusetts

Location: Cambridge, MA • Full-Time • Onsite

This is a full-time, onsite role based in Cambridge, MA. Given the hands-on, collaborative nature of this position, we are not considering remote, hybrid-remote, or relocation candidates at this time. Only applicants currently living within commuting distance of Cambridge, MA will be considered.

Marengo Therapeutics is a Phase 2 clinical-stage immuno-oncology company developing first-in-class immune activators designed to precisely stimulate and expand anti-tumor T cells to drive deep, durable anti-tumor immunity. The company has a rich pipeline of multi-specific therapeutics powered by three distinct platforms, supported by advanced antibody discovery and immunology insights. Marengo’s lead STAR program is progressing in the clinic across multiple solid tumor indications.

Marengo’s scientific platform and development strategy are further validated through multiple strategic partnerships with large-cap global pharmaceutical companies, reflecting the industry’s confidence in the novelty and potential impact of Marengo’s approach.

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Senior Research Associate or Associate Scientist to join our Protein Sciences team. Level will be commensurate with experience. This role sits at the heart of Marengo’s therapeutic discovery engine — providing the purified, well-characterized proteins and antibodies that power our immuno-oncology pipeline. The successful candidate will own mammalian expression and purification workflows end-to-end and will partner closely with Immunology, Biology, and Antibody Discovery colleagues to supply high-quality reagents and generate the biophysical data that drive lead candidate decisions.

This is an excellent opportunity for a scientist who takes pride in rigorous bench execution and wants to see their work translate directly into therapeutic impact.

• Expression & Cell Culture: Execute transient mammalian cell HEK293, CHO) across shake flask and high-throughput platforms. Monitor cell viability, optimize transfection protocols, and troubleshoot production to maximize yield and quality.

• Protein Purification: Perform automated and manual multi-step purification of recombinant proteins and antibodies using affinity chromatography (Protein A/G, IMAC), ion exchange (IEX), and size exclusion chromatography (SEC).

• Instrumentation: Operate and maintain ÄKTA Pure/Avant FPLC systems and UNICORN software; support routine instrument qualification and maintenance schedules.

• Analytical Characterization: Conduct biophysical analysis to confirm identity, purity, and concentration of purified material, including SDS-PAGE, SEC-HPLC/UPLC, and UV-Vis spectroscopy.

• Binding & Potency Assays: Develop and execute plate-based assays (ELISA, polyreactivity screens) and support SPR/BLI (Biacore/Octet) experiments to characterize binding kinetics and inform candidate triage.

• Data Analysis & Documentation: Maintain meticulous records in an Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN); analyze and interpret results to provide actionable insights that feed protein engineering cycles and program decisions.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with Immunology, Biology, and Antibody Discovery teams to coordinate reagent supply, troubleshoot assay challenges, and communicate findings in team meetings.

• B.S. or M.S. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or a closely related discipline.

• 2–5+ years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience in an industry or academic setting.

• Hands-on proficiency in mammalian cell culture and aseptic technique.

• Demonstrated experience in multi-step protein purification and chromatography, including operation of ÄKTA FPLC systems.

• Experience developing, running, and troubleshooting ELISA platforms (background reduction, normalization, reagent optimization).

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Familiarity with antibody characterization assays such as HIC, AC-SINS, or polyreactivity ELISAs (BVP/DNA).

• Exposure to SPR or BLI binding kinetics platforms (Biacore, Octet).

• Prior experience in a biopharmaceutical R&D environment.

• Familiarity with ELN systems and data analysis tools (e.g., GraphPad Prism).

The ideal candidate is a self-driven, collaborative scientist who thrives in a fast-paced startup environment. You communicate proactively — sharing results, flagging issues early, and contributing ideas in cross-functional discussions. You adapt quickly when experimental plans shift, and you approach challenges with curiosity and resourcefulness.