- Research Engineer / Scientist, LLM Post-Training
Position Summary
We are building LLMs for biological research and are seeking a Research Engineer / Scientist to lead post-training experiments that improve reasoning, tool use, and reliability.
The primary focus will be on LLMs and post-training—spanning training data and reward design through optimization and evaluation. You will collaborate with ML engineers and domain scientists to translate promising methods into measurable model improvements. Prior biology experience is welcome but not required.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and iterate on SFT, preference optimization, and reinforcement learning recipes.
- Build scalable pipelines for rollout generation, reward computation, and policy training.
- Improve multi-step reasoning, tool use, and performance on complex scientific tasks.
- Develop synthetic data, distillation, and data filtering methods.
- Design rewards and evaluations; diagnose reward hacking, training instability, and capability regressions.
- Run rigorous experiments and bring successful methods into production.
Professional Experience and Qualifications
- Required:
- Strong foundations in deep learning, Transformers, and language modeling.
- Hands-on experience training or post-training LLMs, with depth in SFT, DPO, PPO, GRPO, or related methods.
- Proficiency in Python and PyTorch; comfortable debugging distributed training.
- Ability to independently design experiments, analyze model behavior, and demonstrate reliable improvements.
- Preferred:
- Experience with large-scale RL, reasoning models, or tool-using agents.
- Familiarity with frameworks such as veRL, OpenRLHF, vLLM, or SGLang.
- Experience with reward modeling, synthetic data, or model distillation.
- Interest in biology, biomedical research, or scientific discovery.
Position Summary
We are building LLMs for biological research and are seeking a Research Engineer / Scientist to lead post-training experiments that improve reasoning, tool use, and reliability.
The primary focus will be on LLMs and post-training—spanning training data and reward design through optimization and evaluation. You will collaborate with ML engineers and domain scientists to translate promising methods into measurable model improvements. Prior biology experience is welcome but not required.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and iterate on SFT, preference optimization, and reinforcement learning recipes.
- Build scalable pipelines for rollout generation, reward computation, and policy training.
- Improve multi-step reasoning, tool use, and performance on complex scientific tasks.
- Develop synthetic data, distillation, and data filtering methods.
- Design rewards and evaluations; diagnose reward hacking, training instability, and capability regressions.
- Run rigorous experiments and bring successful methods into production.
Professional Experience and Qualifications
- Required:
- Strong foundations in deep learning, Transformers, and language modeling.
- Hands-on experience training or post-training LLMs, with depth in SFT, DPO, PPO, GRPO, or related methods.
- Proficiency in Python and PyTorch; comfortable debugging distributed training.
- Ability to independently design experiments, analyze model behavior, and demonstrate reliable improvements.
- Preferred:
- Experience with large-scale RL, reasoning models, or tool-using agents.
- Familiarity with frameworks such as veRL, OpenRLHF, vLLM, or SGLang.
- Experience with reward modeling, synthetic data, or model distillation.
- Interest in biology, biomedical research, or scientific discovery.
AISan Francisco, CA$495K/yr - $1M/yrhr@aurekabio.com - Principal Scientist / Director, Biotherapeutic Discovery & Development
Company Summary:
Aureka Biotechnologies is an AI-driven biotech startup integrating high-throughput biology with generative AI to discover and develop antibody therapeutics with exceptional speed and quality. Through multiple pharma partnerships, our platform has been validated to deliver best-in-class, differentiated antibodies that are difficult to identify using traditional approaches.
Position Summary:
Aureka Bio is seeking a highly motivated, passionate, and detail-oriented Principal Scientist to join our Antibody Therapeutics team. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a fast-growing, AI-driven biotherapeutics company dedicated to rapidly generating next-generation biologics for Immunology & Inflammation (I&I) and metabolic diseases.
The successful candidate must have hands-on experience in protein engineering and immunoscreening techniques, with a strong track record in biotherapeutic discovery and development. This role will provide the opportunity to lead multiple discovery campaigns, advancing programs from concept through preclinical development in close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including bioassay, translational biology, and CMC.
This is a bench-facing, on-site position based in Irvine, CA, offering high visibility and impact within a dynamic and collaborative environment. The final title and level will be determined based on experience.
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead the design, discovery, and optimization of monoclonal, bispecific, and multi-specific antibodies using display and screening platforms (B-cell cloning, phage, and yeast display).
• Perform high-throughput antibody screening assays, including binding kinetics, ligand blocking, and epitope binning, to rapidly identify and prioritize lead candidates.
• Design and develop recombinant protein-based immunoassays to characterize therapeutic antibodies using biochemical and biophysical methods.
• Execute small- and large-scale antibody expression and purification using chromatography techniques and evaluate purity via SDS-PAGE, analytical SEC, and Western blot.
• Co-lead biotherapeutic discovery campaigns and partner closely with in vitro and in vivo pharmacology teams to evaluate PK/PD, efficacy, and safety profiles.
• Provide strategic and technical input on antibody design, developability, and candidate selection during early-stage development.
• Interface with CROs and external collaborators to ensure high-quality data generation and timely project execution.
• Present experimental results and program updates to project teams, senior management, and collaborators.
• Maintain accurate experimental documentation in ELN and ensure compliance with best data practices.
• Stay current with emerging literature and technologies relevant to antibody engineering and biologics discovery.
Professional Experience and Qualifications:
• PhD in Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Molecular Biology, Immunology or related discipline with at least 7 years (Principal Scientist) or 10 years (Director) of research experience working in a biotech or large pharma setting is a must.
• Experience with antibody pipeline discovery, screening, antibody engineering and optimization in the field of I&I or metabolic diseases is a must.
• Expertise in designing and conducting in vitro protein-based assays using diverse biophysical and bioanalytical methods (e.g., SPR/BLI, ELISA, DLS, thermal stability, immunoassays) is a must.
• Strong understanding of protein engineering, Fc modifications, and developability assessments is essential.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail is essential.
• Experience with antibody screening databases and proficiency in data analysis/visualization software, such as Spotfire, Dotmatics, D360, etc. is a plus.
• Demonstrated scientific innovation and productivity, as evidenced by patents and/or peer-reviewed publications.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present complex data clearly to cross-functional teams, leadership and collaborators.
• Self-motivated, collaborative, and enthusiastic about contributing to a multidisciplinary, early-stage biotech focused on breakthrough antibody therapeutics.
Compensation:
Competitive and commensurate with experience, including salary, equity, and benefits—aligned with the company’s long-term success.
Why Join Us:
• Competitive compensation, comprehensive healthcare coverage, equity participation, family leave, paid time off, and 401k retirement plan.
• A dynamic early-stage work environment and highly interdisciplinary, talented team with a collaborative and innovation-driven culture.
• Participation in an unprecedented opportunity to significantly impact the quality of life of patients by developing a targeted approach to delivering therapeutic molecules.
• Professional growth opportunities through mentoring, training, immersion in cross-functional projects, and opportunities to learn and try new things.
Company Summary:
Aureka Biotechnologies is an AI-driven biotech startup integrating high-throughput biology with generative AI to discover and develop antibody therapeutics with exceptional speed and quality. Through multiple pharma partnerships, our platform has been validated to deliver best-in-class, differentiated antibodies that are difficult to identify using traditional approaches.
Position Summary:
Aureka Bio is seeking a highly motivated, passionate, and detail-oriented Principal Scientist to join our Antibody Therapeutics team. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a fast-growing, AI-driven biotherapeutics company dedicated to rapidly generating next-generation biologics for Immunology & Inflammation (I&I) and metabolic diseases.
The successful candidate must have hands-on experience in protein engineering and immunoscreening techniques, with a strong track record in biotherapeutic discovery and development. This role will provide the opportunity to lead multiple discovery campaigns, advancing programs from concept through preclinical development in close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including bioassay, translational biology, and CMC.
This is a bench-facing, on-site position based in Irvine, CA, offering high visibility and impact within a dynamic and collaborative environment. The final title and level will be determined based on experience.
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead the design, discovery, and optimization of monoclonal, bispecific, and multi-specific antibodies using display and screening platforms (B-cell cloning, phage, and yeast display).
• Perform high-throughput antibody screening assays, including binding kinetics, ligand blocking, and epitope binning, to rapidly identify and prioritize lead candidates.
• Design and develop recombinant protein-based immunoassays to characterize therapeutic antibodies using biochemical and biophysical methods.
• Execute small- and large-scale antibody expression and purification using chromatography techniques and evaluate purity via SDS-PAGE, analytical SEC, and Western blot.
• Co-lead biotherapeutic discovery campaigns and partner closely with in vitro and in vivo pharmacology teams to evaluate PK/PD, efficacy, and safety profiles.
• Provide strategic and technical input on antibody design, developability, and candidate selection during early-stage development.
• Interface with CROs and external collaborators to ensure high-quality data generation and timely project execution.
• Present experimental results and program updates to project teams, senior management, and collaborators.
• Maintain accurate experimental documentation in ELN and ensure compliance with best data practices.
• Stay current with emerging literature and technologies relevant to antibody engineering and biologics discovery.
Professional Experience and Qualifications:
• PhD in Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Molecular Biology, Immunology or related discipline with at least 7 years (Principal Scientist) or 10 years (Director) of research experience working in a biotech or large pharma setting is a must.
• Experience with antibody pipeline discovery, screening, antibody engineering and optimization in the field of I&I or metabolic diseases is a must.
• Expertise in designing and conducting in vitro protein-based assays using diverse biophysical and bioanalytical methods (e.g., SPR/BLI, ELISA, DLS, thermal stability, immunoassays) is a must.
• Strong understanding of protein engineering, Fc modifications, and developability assessments is essential.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail is essential.
• Experience with antibody screening databases and proficiency in data analysis/visualization software, such as Spotfire, Dotmatics, D360, etc. is a plus.
• Demonstrated scientific innovation and productivity, as evidenced by patents and/or peer-reviewed publications.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present complex data clearly to cross-functional teams, leadership and collaborators.
• Self-motivated, collaborative, and enthusiastic about contributing to a multidisciplinary, early-stage biotech focused on breakthrough antibody therapeutics.
Compensation:
Competitive and commensurate with experience, including salary, equity, and benefits—aligned with the company’s long-term success.
Why Join Us:
• Competitive compensation, comprehensive healthcare coverage, equity participation, family leave, paid time off, and 401k retirement plan.
• A dynamic early-stage work environment and highly interdisciplinary, talented team with a collaborative and innovation-driven culture.
• Participation in an unprecedented opportunity to significantly impact the quality of life of patients by developing a targeted approach to delivering therapeutic molecules.
• Professional growth opportunities through mentoring, training, immersion in cross-functional projects, and opportunities to learn and try new things.
TherapeuticIrvine, CAhr@aurekabio.com - Scientist / Senior Scientist, Antibody Engineer / Therapeutics
Company Summary:
Aureka Biotechnologies is an AI-driven biotech startup integrating high-throughput biology with generative AI to discover and develop antibody therapeutics with exceptional speed and quality. Through multiple pharma partnerships, our platform has been validated to deliver best-in-class, differentiated antibodies that are difficult to identify using traditional approaches.
Position Summary:
Aureka Bio is seeking a highly motivated, passionate, and detail-oriented Scientist or Senior Scientist in antibody engineering and biotherapeutics. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a fast-growing, AI-driven biotherapeutics company dedicated to rapidly generating next-generation biologics for Immunology & Inflammation (I&I) and metabolic diseases.
This is a hands-on, bench-facing role with ownership over antibody design, engineering, and optimization efforts across multiple programs. The successful candidate will drive the generation of best-in-class biotherapeutics from early discovery through preclinical development, working closely with bioassay, translational biology, and computational teams. The final title and level will be determined based on experience.
Key Responsibilities:
• Design, engineer, and optimize monoclonal and multi-specific antibodies for potency, affinity, stability, developability, and manufacturability.
• Build and screen antibody libraries (yeast display, phage display, or mammalian display).
• Perform antibody screening assays, including binding kinetics (SPR/BLI), ligand blocking, epitope binning, polyspecificity, thermal stability, and developability to rapidly identify and prioritize lead candidates.
• Collaborate with assay development and translational teams to validate functional activity in relevant in vitro and in vivo systems.
• Interface with CROs and external collaborators to ensure high-quality data generation and timely project execution.
• Present experimental results and program updates to project teams, senior management, and collaborators.
• Maintain accurate experimental documentation in ELN and ensure compliance with best data practices.
Required Qualifications:
Scientist Level
• PhD with 1–3 years of relevant industry or MS with 4–6 years of relevant industry experience.
Senior Scientist Level
• PhD with 4–8 years of industry experience or MS with 8–12 years of industry experience.
Technical Skills
• Deep hands-on experience in antibody engineering and protein expression/characterization.
• Proficient in affinity maturation and antibody optimization.
• Strong background with biophysical and biochemical characterization (e.g., BLI, SPR, SEC, DSF).
• Solid molecular biology skills: cloning, mutagenesis, library construction.
• Experience in yeast display, phage display, or mammalian display technologies will be a plus.
• Experience in vivo efficacy or PK/PD will be a plus.
• Data-driven approach to experimental design and decision making.
Compensation:
Competitive and commensurate with experience, including salary, equity, and benefits—aligned with the company’s long-term success.
Why Join Us:
• Competitive compensation, comprehensive healthcare coverage, equity participation, family leave, and paid time off.
• A dynamic early-stage work environment and highly interdisciplinary, talented team with a collaborative and innovation-driven culture.
• Participation in an unprecedented opportunity to significantly impact the quality of life of patients by developing a targeted approach to delivering therapeutic molecules.
• Professional growth opportunities through mentoring, training, immersion in cross-functional projects, and opportunities to learn and try new things.
Company Summary:
Aureka Biotechnologies is an AI-driven biotech startup integrating high-throughput biology with generative AI to discover and develop antibody therapeutics with exceptional speed and quality. Through multiple pharma partnerships, our platform has been validated to deliver best-in-class, differentiated antibodies that are difficult to identify using traditional approaches.
Position Summary:
Aureka Bio is seeking a highly motivated, passionate, and detail-oriented Scientist or Senior Scientist in antibody engineering and biotherapeutics. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a fast-growing, AI-driven biotherapeutics company dedicated to rapidly generating next-generation biologics for Immunology & Inflammation (I&I) and metabolic diseases.
This is a hands-on, bench-facing role with ownership over antibody design, engineering, and optimization efforts across multiple programs. The successful candidate will drive the generation of best-in-class biotherapeutics from early discovery through preclinical development, working closely with bioassay, translational biology, and computational teams. The final title and level will be determined based on experience.
Key Responsibilities:
• Design, engineer, and optimize monoclonal and multi-specific antibodies for potency, affinity, stability, developability, and manufacturability.
• Build and screen antibody libraries (yeast display, phage display, or mammalian display).
• Perform antibody screening assays, including binding kinetics (SPR/BLI), ligand blocking, epitope binning, polyspecificity, thermal stability, and developability to rapidly identify and prioritize lead candidates.
• Collaborate with assay development and translational teams to validate functional activity in relevant in vitro and in vivo systems.
• Interface with CROs and external collaborators to ensure high-quality data generation and timely project execution.
• Present experimental results and program updates to project teams, senior management, and collaborators.
• Maintain accurate experimental documentation in ELN and ensure compliance with best data practices.
Required Qualifications:
Scientist Level
• PhD with 1–3 years of relevant industry or MS with 4–6 years of relevant industry experience.
Senior Scientist Level
• PhD with 4–8 years of industry experience or MS with 8–12 years of industry experience.
Technical Skills
• Deep hands-on experience in antibody engineering and protein expression/characterization.
• Proficient in affinity maturation and antibody optimization.
• Strong background with biophysical and biochemical characterization (e.g., BLI, SPR, SEC, DSF).
• Solid molecular biology skills: cloning, mutagenesis, library construction.
• Experience in yeast display, phage display, or mammalian display technologies will be a plus.
• Experience in vivo efficacy or PK/PD will be a plus.
• Data-driven approach to experimental design and decision making.
Compensation:
Competitive and commensurate with experience, including salary, equity, and benefits—aligned with the company’s long-term success.
Why Join Us:
• Competitive compensation, comprehensive healthcare coverage, equity participation, family leave, and paid time off.
• A dynamic early-stage work environment and highly interdisciplinary, talented team with a collaborative and innovation-driven culture.
• Participation in an unprecedented opportunity to significantly impact the quality of life of patients by developing a targeted approach to delivering therapeutic molecules.
• Professional growth opportunities through mentoring, training, immersion in cross-functional projects, and opportunities to learn and try new things.
TherapeuticIrvine, CAhr@aurekabio.com
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