Senior/Principal Scientist

Job Title: Senior/Principal Scientist – Gene Therapy Vectors Innovation

Location: South San Francisco, CA

Reports to: Associate Director, Gene Therapy

About SonoThera

SonoThera is a venture-backed genetic medicine company advancing ultrasound-mediated, non-viral targeted therapies to unlock the full potential of genetic medicines. Our platform is designed to overcome key limitations in the field, enabling precise, re‑doable delivery across a broad range of diseases with high unmet need. Headquartered in South San Francisco, SonoThera brings together a world-class, interdisciplinary team focused on translating breakthrough science into transformative therapies.

The Role

The Gene Therapy group at SonoThera is seeking to hire a Senior/Principal Scientist to become an integral part of the gene therapy drug development effort. We are looking for candidates who demonstrate strong managerial capabilities in a high paced small biotech environment along with strong aptitude for innovation in the gene therapy vector development field. This position requires adaptability and the ability to excel in a fast‑paced start‑up environment. The ideal candidate will have extensive technical experience and a proven record of innovation in gene therapy vectors development and manufacturing.

What You Will Do

• Support the innovative efforts in developing gene therapy vectors
• Managing a team of 2-4 scientists ranging from Research Associate to Associate Scientist levels.
• Provide day‑to‑day support for vector development team operations, including but not limited to vector design generation, maintenance of research records, and management of vector and oligonucleotide inventories
• Work in close connection with project management team and manage vector development activities, leveraging advanced project management tools such as SmartSheet to ensure accurate timelines, resource allocation, and milestone delivery.
• Manage external and internal collaboration activities
• Scope open‑source resources to identify technologies that address major limitations in the delivery of non‑viral gene therapy vectors.
• Establish novel development and manufacturing procedures for scalable production of next‑generation DNA and RNA payloads.

Qualifications

• A PhD in biological sciences (e.g., Genetics, Biochemistry, Molecular and Cellular Biology, or a related field), with minimum 6+ years of experience in an industry setting.
• 2-4 years of experience in managing a research team in a high paced small biotech environment
• Meticulous attention to detail and effective communication of complex task details to the research team
• Demonstrated creativity and the ability to work effectively within an interdisciplinary team
• Demonstrated ability to lead and support a team with a balanced approach that is both collaborative and results driven.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, along with strong critical thinking and problem‑solving abilities.

Technical Requirements & Skills

• Demonstrated success in developing potent and safe gene therapy payloads for both viral and non‑viral delivery, evidenced by first authorship in peer‑reviewed publications, patents, and presentations at major international gene therapy conferences.
• Strong working knowledge of enzymatic and cell‑based nucleic acid manufacturing processes.
• Extensive experience in literature mining and designing DNA‑ and RNA‑based gene therapy payloads.
• Ability to efficiently coordinate the daily activities of the research team in close collaboration with the project management team.
• Proficiency in using Geneious, Benchling, and SmartSheet platforms.
• An ideal candidate will have familiarity with gene editing and high throughput screening technologies.
• Strong record‑keeping and organizational skills.

Benefits

We offer our employees a comprehensive benefits package.

At SonoThera, we’ll give you the tools to feel healthy, happy and secure.

Access to a 24‑hour onsite gym.

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision.

Equity and ownership in a fast‑growing company.

Commuting stipend based on your geographical location.

401(k) Match: SonoThera offers a company match.

All full‑time employees are eligible for our flexible time off policy.

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $150,000.00 to $206,000.00 USD annually. This salary range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on various factors, including, without limitation, individual education, experience, tenure, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data, including potential adjustments for geographic location.

Equal Opportunity for Diversity & Inclusion

SonoThera provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.