Scientist, Vector Translational Biology

Affinia Therapeutics is an innovative gene therapy company with a vision to create a paradigm shift by broadening the reach of gene therapy to prevalent diseases. Our proprietary Affinia Rationally-designed Therapies (ART) platform was created to address key efficacy, safety, and cost of goods limitations of conventional gene therapies. We are backed by a strong syndicate of life science investors. Our purpose is to have a dramatic impact on the lives of patients around the world. 

You will play a key role in shaping our culture and embodying our values of integrity, passion, and teamwork. You will be working alongside the management team who has a track record of success in the industry. The pace of work is dynamic, fast, and fun.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits with the ability to make a difference. 

Position Summary

Affinia Therapeutics is seeking an experienced Scientist (job level will commensurate with experience) to join our Vector Translational Biology laboratory team. You will be part of a team dedicated to advancing gene therapies based on vectors derived from our unique AAV platform. This is a lab-based, onsite role where you will independently develop and execute multiple analytical assays to support capsid discovery and disease programs. You will actively contribute towards in vivo and in vitro studies focusing on decisional outputs like payload selection, vector pharmacology, target engagement, safety and efficacy. You will work with other scientists in the team to meet tight timelines. You will also establish new methods, evaluate new technologies and develop more efficient laboratory workflows while maintaining data quality and electronic lab-notebook. This is an ideal position for an individual with a strong background in preclinical drug development who thrives in a team-oriented, fast-paced, cross-disciplinary biotech environment.

The role is located at our state-of-the-art facility, in Waltham, MA, and reports to the Sr. Director and Head of Vector Translational Biology.

Primary Responsibilities

• Independently develop and execute analytical methods to propel in vivo pharmacology and functional assays from our rodent and NHP studies i.e., ddPCR/qPCR-based RNA/DNA quantification; and ELISA/Western blot-based protein assays.
  • Independent method development (e.g., assay design, validation, and troubleshooting).
  • Animal tissue processing and assay execution for team deliverables.
  • Independent data analysis, interpretation, and reporting.
• Design and perform cell culture experiments and in vitro screening for optimal gene expression, silencing and editing payloads.
• Actively communicate and work cross-functionally with team members.
• Organize data for preclinical study reports, and peer-review data to ensure data quality and integrity.
• Assist with transfer of qualified assay methods to cross-functional colleagues and CRO partners as needed.
• Implement new laboratory workflows; continuously improve efficiency while maintaining data-quality.

Minimum Qualifications

• A PhD in scientific discipline with a minimum of 2-4 years’ experience in relevant academic research and/or R&D environment. Or ~6 years of equivalent experience without a PhD
• A strong record of demonstrating analytical reasoning and creative problem-solving skills in a laboratory environment, including method development, and use of common statistical analysis methods
• Excellent written and oral communications skills, including experience writing laboratory SOPs, protocols, and reports
• Ability to organize and communicate scientific data to management and internal stakeholders
• Ability to work independently to determine and acquire new methods and scientific knowledge
• Strong collaboration skills
• Experience developing analytical methods for in vitro screening and in vivo pharmacology
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment flexibly and collaboratively
• Operate daily with Integrity, Teamwork, and Passion

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in analysis of preclinical samples for biomarker, biodistribution and safety parameters
• Previous animal tissue processing experience
• Experience with IND-enabling studies
• Familiarity with GXP procedures and regulatory guidelines

EEO Statement: Affinia Therapeutics is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.