Senior Scientist, Cell Line Biology & Development

Job Summary

• The Vector Biology and Discovery team is seeking a talented cell/molecular biologist with expertise in cell line development and characterization. He/she will collaborate with global project teams to advance therapeutic AAV projects and producer cell line platforms.

Major Accountabilities

• Apply hands-on expertise with molecular and cellular techniques to investigate and characterize producer cell lines
• Utilize technologies including gene editing, silencing, and overexpression to improve cell lines for production of therapeutic AAV vectors
• Collaborate with process development and vector engineering teams on research studies
• Provide scientific insight and guidance in projects/platforms, including strong scientific thinking and hypothesis development
• Drive projects locally with clear scientific direction and experimental design, including providing scientific supervision to junior scientists
• Prepare, analyze, and present high quality data
• Prepare and review technical reports and write research operating protocols
• Communicate and work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team.

Education and Qualification

• PhD in virology, molecular biology, genetics, biochemical/chemical engineering or a related field with 3-5 years of experience. Industry experience highly preferred.
• Hands-on experience in drug discovery research, including expertise in cell culture systems to produce viral vectors or biologics. Experience with AAV for gene therapy is preferred.
• Significant expertise with NGS techniques and analysis, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing/silencing, siRNA knockdown, and proteomics.
• Experience with high-throughput screening, producer cell lines, high-throughput or disposable bioreactors, and culture media optimization is preferred.
• Proficiency with mammalian cell culture, cell-based assays, and molecular techniques (cloning, immunoassays, RT-qPCR, etc.).