Overview
BIOWEG is seeking a creative, adaptable, and scientifically ambitious Peptide Chemist to join a fast-paced, high-energy multidisciplinary team developing next-generation peptide-based technologies for advanced materials and sustainable separation applications. You will be joining an environment that combines startup momentum, rapid iteration, and hands-on experimentation with high scientific standards and robust chemistry.
BIOWEG’s mission contributes directly to global sustainability by enabling innovative approaches to the recovery, reuse, and responsible management of critical raw materials. The work supports circular-economy principles and advances long-term technological resilience at both European and global levels.
This role is highly diverse and experimental. It spans peptide design and synthesis, analytical characterisation, proteomics-driven screening workflows, and the translation of selected peptides into solid-phase materials and prototype separation formats. It is well suited to a scientist who enjoys variety, thrives under time pressure, and is excited by building new technology rather than refining a single narrow method.
Key Responsibilities
Peptide Chemistry and Analytical Science
Design, synthesise, and modify peptides using solid-phase peptide synthesis (including microwave-assisted SPPS), followed by purification and characterisation using HPLC, LC-MS/MS, and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Optimise peptide properties for stability, performance, and downstream material integration.
Proteomics and Screening Workflows
Prepare and process peptide samples for high-resolution mass spectrometry-based screening. Perform controlled incubations and analytical assays, working closely with mass spectrometry specialists to support QC, data interpretation, and prioritisation of candidate sequences.
Metal Interaction and Functional Assays
Support the development of peptide-metal interaction assays, including preparation of metal solutions and controlled incubation protocols. Contribute to MS-supported screening approaches and assist with orthogonal analytical or biophysical characterisation where relevant.
Integration into Materials and Separation Systems
Contribute to the functionalisation of solid supports with selected peptides and assess basic compatibility, stability, and performance. Support the preparation and evaluation of experimental capture or separation formats, including early-stage column or packed-bed testing.
Method Development and Troubleshooting
Contribute to iterative optimisation across peptide chemistry, analytical workflows, and materials integration. Address technical challenges proactively and creatively, maintaining high scientific quality and reproducibility within a fast-moving innovation environment.
Qualifications
Essential
· PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Proteomics, or a closely related discipline.
· Strong hands-on experience in peptide chemistry, including Fmoc SPPS and purification.
· Experience preparing samples for LC-MS/MS or high-resolution mass spectrometry.
· Solid understanding of peptide or protein analytical workflows.
· Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary and fast-moving research environment.
· Strong organisational and problem-solving skills, with a commitment to rigorous experimental science.
Highly Desirable
· Experience in producing peptides using non-SPPS methods (e.g. enzymatic, recombinant, or alternative synthetic approaches).
· Experience with non-canonical amino acids, peptide modifications or functional ligands.
· Background in interaction assays, coordination chemistry, or metal-binding behaviour.
· Familiarity with solid-phase functionalisation or materials characterisation.
· Experience preparing or evaluating packed-bed materials, chromatography resins, or small-scale columns.
· Experience in applied, translational, or industry-oriented R&D environments.
Additional Consideration
· Candidates with a Master’s degree and substantial, demonstrable laboratory experience in peptide chemistry and proteomics may be considered for a more technical or junior role.
Work Environment
This position is based in Berlin, within a collaborative framework involving BIOWEG GmbH and Technische Universitat Berlin. You will be joining a multidisciplinary, intellectually engaged team spanning peptide chemistry, analytical science, mass spectrometry, computational analysis, and materials development. The project environment combines academic depth with startup-style agility, creativity, and urgency, offering the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development of a novel, sustainability-driven technology platform.