Head of Analytical Chemistry

Helaina is a VC-backed biotech startup creating a new category of functional food products. We're the first company to put human proteins into food, starting with making the most human-like infant formula in order to empower and equip parents with more choice in their infant’s nutrition.

Helaina’s R&D harnesses the power of naturally occurring biological processes in tandem with modern advances in the space of synthetic biology, fermentation, and improved industrial processing. We developed a novel precision fermentation platform to unlock a suite of functional proteins, which allows us to create infant formula with health benefits previously only available through breast milk.

Helaina is backed by top VCs in the industry including Spark Capital, Siam Capital, Primary Venture Partners, and Plum Alley. We are a team of change-makers looking for our next team member who is intensely passionate about advancing synthetic biology for food and beverage products and redefining the future of nutrition. 

About The Role

Helaina is looking for a Head of Analytics to join our team and to lead protein and small molecule characterization efforts. Reporting to the CEO, the Head of Analytics will be responsible for leading and growing the team responsible for the analytical characterization of our precision fermentation and accompanying processes. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated previous experience in leading and managing a team of analytical scientists at all stages of their career. In addition, the candidate will have hands-on experience with (ultra) high performance liquid chromatography (RP, SEC, IEX), mass spectrometry (GC-MS, LC-MS), capillary electrophoresis (CE-SDS, ciEF), light scattering (SEC-MALS, DLS), and plate based or high throughput screening (HTS) assay development. 
What You'll Do

• Work with leadership team to define analytics objectives and determine resource prioritization
• Collaborate with strain engineering, bioprocess, and food science technical team leads in order to drive innovation in research and development 
• Lead analytics team on experimental design, planning, execution, and interpretation
• Work with external partners for tech transfer and collaboration on analytical methods
• Stay up to date on literature and industry trends related to protein analytical characterization
• Serve as mentor for scientists and research associates on topics related to their career development

Qualifications

• Masters or PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related discipline
• 7+ years of experience working with protein and metabolite analytics in an industrial environment
• Experience developing, troubleshooting, and successfully implementing analytical methods for lab teams
• Experience working with external partners to complete tech transfer of analytical methods
• 3+ years of management experience (managing scientists and research associates)
• Ability to communicate effectively and present ideas clearly to internal and external groups
• Has an “anything is possible” attitude 

Bonus Points

• Experience working in a synthetic biology startup environment
• Experience working on analytical requirements for GRAS dossiers or other FDA-facing materials

The Logistics

• Terms of employment: Full-time, non-exempt
• Location: New York, New York, United States 
• Benefits: Full medical coverage, full dental and vision coverage, 401(k) plan, unlimited vacation, supportive parental leave policy, the opportunity for advancement, respectful managers, and supportive colleagues.
• This is a U.S.-based position: In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. 


• Learn more about Helaina here:
• The Spoon Article 
• Protein Report
• Green Queen
• Best NYC Startups 
• MIT Tech Review

Helaina is an Equal Opportunity Employer 
For more information, please contact careers@myhelaina.com