Assistant Scientist - Biophysics / SPR

At X-Chem, it is our mission to leverage the world’s leading drug discovery platform to help create molecules that will improve human health. At X-Chem, we do more than screen compounds. We help you make confident decisions that move science forward. Our integrated platform combines DNA-encoded libraries, medicinal chemistry, advanced modeling and proprietary AI into a powerful and precise discovery engine. Everything is connected through Chemomics, our approach to unlocking value from every data point. Whether you’re exploring a new target or refining a lead, we help you discover high-quality molecules with greater speed, insight and control.

This position will support the development and execution of biochemical and biophysical assays, with a particular focus on Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR). The successful candidate will contribute to assay development, optimization, execution, data analysis, troubleshooting, and reporting in support of drug discovery programs. Previous SPR or Biacore experience is considered an asset; candidates with strong biochemical or biophysical assay experience and an interest in developing SPR expertise will also be considered. The ideal candidate has 1 to 3 years of laboratory experience

This position will be located at X-Chem’s offices in Montreal, QC Canada.

Job Responsibilities:

• Perform and support biochemical and biophysical assay activities, including SPR-based experiments.
• Execute established protocols and experimental plans, including repeat analyses, troubleshooting, and investigation-related activities.
• Support assay and method development, optimization, verification, validation, and transfer activities.
• Prepare buffers, reagents, samples, and dilution series accurately and reproducibly, including pH adjustment and verification.
• Maintain and complete accurately the laboratory documentation.
• Ensure data integrity, and accuracy of all generated, analyzed, and reported results.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and coordinate routine instrument checks, troubleshooting, and service activities as required.
• Follow laboratory safety requirements, established procedures, and good scientific practices.

Skills and Qualifications:

• BSc in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or related scientific discipline with 1 to 3 years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience.
• Relevant hands-on laboratory experience with biochemical, biophysical, or related life-science assays.
• Strong pipetting skills and experience preparing buffers and solutions, including the use of a pH meter.
• General understanding of protein chemistry, biomolecular interactions, and reaction and/or enzyme kinetics.
• Experience executing laboratory protocols independently with strong attention to detail and reproducibility.
• Ability to analyze, interpret, and troubleshoot experimental data.
• Experience supporting method development, optimization, verification, validation, and/or method transfer.
• Strong understanding of laboratory documentation, data integrity, traceability, and scientific reproducibility.
• General knowledge of laboratory safety, chemical handling, and good laboratory practices.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple experiments or projects concurrently.
• Good written and verbal communication skills and ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary project teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• SPR experience is preferred but is not a mandatory requirement for this position.
• Understanding of biomolecular interaction kinetics and affinity, including association rate, dissociation rate, and equilibrium binding constants.
• Experience interpreting binding curves or sensorgrams and evaluating assay quality.
• Experience in a drug discovery, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or CRO environment.
• Experience preparing technical reports and presenting scientific data to internal project teams.

The company cooperates with its customers, partners and colleagues outside Quebec for the research and development of medical products based on the identification and optimization of small molecules enabling the development of specific drugs. Interaction with colleagues and partners outside Quebec, notably in Budapest and Waltham, is constant. Consequently, knowledge of English is required for this unique and specialized position. Knowledge of French is required for positions permanently located in Quebec, so that the incumbent can communicate as needed with colleagues, customers and partners in Quebec. French-language training will be offered to any incumbent of a permanent position in Quebec who does not have a good knowledge of French.

Why join X-Chem?

Our scientists innovate beyond reported chemistry while focusing on delivery. We all share a passion for staying at the forefront of computational, cheminformatics, medicinal and synthetic chemistry. To drive innovation, we acknowledge the importance of intelligent risk-taking, open-mindedness and initiative. We encourage creativity in an informal environment and recognize everyone’s contribution as part of a team to work together toward a common vision.

What are the benefits joining us?

We are focused on the development and career progression of our people to reach their full potential through workshops, training courses and mentor guidance. X-Chem offers competitive compensation (salary and performance incentive) and interesting benefits package. Benefits we offer include: Medical, Dental, STD/LTD and Life Insurance, Retirement Plan with employer match; paid vacations based on local policy; casual dress, vision care including prescription safety glasses, training sessions and workshops, social hours and team-building company events.

EEO Statement

X-Chem is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.