Contract Scientist, Gene Therapy

San Diego Stealth Startup

Contract Scientist, Gene Therapy

A dynamic early-stage startup biotechnology company in San Diego is looking for an experienced   Scientist to join its team. The Scientist will work with the founders and team to drive discovery research towards the development of new gene editing tools. The Scientist will perform high throughput  in vivo  gene editing experiments in the laboratory utilizing various analysis techniques, including FACS, PCR/qPCR and NGS, to support the research. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of genetic medicine, making a meaningful impact on patient lives through pioneering science.

About the Role

• Designs and executes experiments related to gene therapy tool development, including molecular cloning, transfection, and assay development.
• Performs tissue culture, mammalian cell culture, and cell & molecular biology research to support gene delivery and expression studies.
• Conducts nucleic acid extraction, PCR, Western blotting, NGS and other techniques to analyze gene expression, protein abundance and enzyme activity.
• Develops and optimizes assays for evaluating gene editing efficiency and vector performance.

· Performs data analysis in conjunction with bioinformatics team and assists with handling, processing and basic evaluation of NGS data.

· May operate and develop protocols for high-throughput liquid handling instruments.

· Operates and maintains instrumentation critical for lab operations. 

· Assists with laboratory clean up and organization. Performs daily, weekly, and monthly equipment maintenance as directed.

· Maintains lab inventory and SOPs.

· Provides regular updates to supervisors. Generates reports and presentations for internal and external viewing.

· Maintains appropriate laboratory records applying ALCOA principles. Tracks sample data and project timelines through electronic means. Responsible for maintaining accurate laboratory logs and records.

About the Candidate

The ideal Scientist has a strong desire to work in a startup environment and participate in the long-term growth of the company. The background for success includes: 

· Master's degree, and/or PhD in a scientific discipline with at least 2 years of post-Masters experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

· Experience in the field of  in vivo  gene editing, CRISPR technology and next generation sequencing, with an educational background in biology, biochemistry, biophysics, molecular or cellular biology.

· Extensive experience in a laboratory environment, working collaboratively with both wet- and dry-lab scientists. 

· Able to design experimental strategies, undertake experiments with minimal supervision and assist with computational work.

· Has direct experience with mammalian cell culture, including but not limited to growth and maintenance, transfections and FACS of both cell lines and primary cells.

· Broad capabilities in molecular and cellular biology, including bacterial cloning, PCR, nucleic acid extractions, etc. Familiarity with NGS protocols and instruments also preferred.

· Hands-on bioinformatics skills sufficient to analyze experimental data independently is important. Specifically, proficiency in Python or R, comfort working in a Unix/command-line environment, and/or direct experience processing NGS data.

· Additional strengths in any of the following are a significant plus and would expand the scope of the role: AI model development applied to biological sequence or structure data; protein structure prediction and analysis; infrastructure and data pipeline development to support high-throughput workflows.

· Experience with high throughput liquid handlers is a plus.

· Proficiency with use of general laboratory instruments.

· Highly self-motivated.

· Exceptional communication skills with the ability to collaborate, seek constructive feedback, build relationships, promote teamwork, and remain flexible and open-minded. 

· Adapts quickly to change.

· Works well under pressure and with tight timelines

· Has experience successfully leading and/or mentoring others.

About the Contract

This contract position is estimated to last at least 3 – 6 months with possibility of extension. Time commitment is 20-40 hours per week, and the Scientist can work a hybrid schedule for optimal flexibility. The 1099 Scientist contractor will earn between $35 - $55 per hour.