Scientist I

We are seeking an independent, goal-oriented and motivated individual to evaluate novel genome editing systems for in vivo therapeutics as a member of our growing pre-clinical research team. Reporting to the project team leader and the Sr. Director of Therapeutic Programs, this position will play a crucial role in enabling next-generation gene editing therapeutics; including the characterization of the therapeutic target as well as the effects of gene editing in both cells and animal models. You will have the opportunity to make a lasting impact as you partner with the therapeutic project, in vivo and NGS teams in order to advance projects toward the clinical phase. This role will be based in Emeryville, California. 

About the Role

The day-to-day responsibilities of this role will include:

• Perform transfection of primary cells and cell lines to support lead finding and selection for pipeline programs
• Perform molecular analysis of in vitro and in vivo editing outcomes using next-generation sequencing, quantitative PCR, and RNA sequencing.
• Analyze the effect of gene editing employing multiple biochemistry techniques (Western Blot, ELISA, activity assays)
• Collaborate internally and with external partners on the optimization of non-viral delivery approaches
• Utilize non-viral and viral delivery approaches to plan in vivo studies and perform various molecular analyses to support internal therapeutic programs (handling animals not required)
• Independently trouble-shoot technical issues as needed
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and present results at team meetings and company-wide meetings
• Contribute to the selection/design of therapeutic strategies
• Provide mentorship / training to research associates as appropriate
• Prepare accurate and timely data summaries and contribute to writing of reports, papers, and patent manuscripts
• Present at internal and external scientific meetings

Desired Qualifications 

• PhD in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, gene editing, or a related discipline
• At least four years of relevant research experience in industry or academia (molecular / cell biology required, gene therapy or gene editing experience desirable)
• Track record of challenging oneself to enhance scientific skills and knowledge
• Experience with aseptic cell culture techniques, including cell transfections
• Experience with quantitative PCR or digital droplet PCR
• Experience with biochemical analysis techniques (Western Blot, ELISA, Enzyme activity assays, Immunostaining)
• Experience with NGS data generation and interpretation
• Effective oral and written communication skills, particularly when collaborating with other teams with limited knowledge of your area of expertise
• Extremely organized and able to efficiently manage your time and workflow, including skillfully prioritizing both long-term projects and day-to-day responsibilities
• Ability to work independently as well as in a results-oriented team
• Able to quickly learn and adapt to new software tools (ex: Benchling, Geneious, Prism, etc.)
• Thrives in a fast-moving, results-oriented startup environment with urgent deadlines
• Self-motivated, passionate about your work, and eager to continuously learn more

Preferred additional qualifications:

• Hands on experience with genome editing technologies
• Experience with lipid nanoparticle technologies for nucleic acid delivery

The anticipated base salary range for this position will be $115,000 - $130,000 depending on the exact level of the role. As this role is open to candidates with a wide range of skills and experience, the exact salary will be dependent on the specific level of the position. We value transparency and will make every effort to provide you with a succinct explanation for how the final salary within this range is determined.

Please note, all candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

Salary : $115,000 - $130,000