About the Role. We are seeking an Associate Scientist to participate in protein engineering campaigns for our cutting-edge genome editing tools towards generating best-in-class molecules. You will play a key role in supporting selection and generation of protein mutants/variants, for testing in cellular screens, downstream analytics, and communicating results within the team. You will also work cross-functionally with other teams to support upstream design and downstream hand-off and testing. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented and motivated molecular biologist with a willingness to learn and a team-first mentality.
What you'll do.- Independently plan, execute, optimize, and troubleshoot experiments supporting protein engineering campaigns for genome editing tools.
- Contribute to the design, generation, and evaluation of protein mutants/variants, including recommending experimental approaches, controls, and follow-up studies.
- Design and execute cell-based screening workflows using transient transfection, nucleofection, and transduction in dividing and non-dividing cell models.
- Design, package, and evaluate AAVs for protein variant testing, including troubleshooting production, delivery, and performance issues.
- Synthesize, purify, characterize, and test IVT-generated mRNA, including troubleshooting quality, yield, and cellular delivery.
- Prepare sequencing libraries and analyze experimental outputs to assess editing outcomes, variant performance, and experimental quality.
- Interpret data, summarize conclusions, and make recommendations that inform next-step experiments and campaign decisions.
- Maintain high-quality documentation and prepare clear data packages for cross-functional review.
- Collaborate with upstream design and downstream testing teams on experimental planning, prioritization, and handoff.
- Present results and contribute scientific input to project planning and experimental strategy.
What you bring. - Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or related discipline with a minimum of 8 years of related experience, or Master's degree with a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience; industry experience preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to independently execute and optimize complex molecular biology, cell-based assay, and protein variant evaluation workflows.
- Hands-on experience with AAV production and testing, including vector design, packaging, assay execution, and troubleshooting of production or performance issues.
- Hands-on experience with IVT mRNA synthesis, purification, characterization, and cellular delivery, including troubleshooting quality, yield, and transfection/nucleofection performance.
- Strong tissue culture experience, including transient transfection, nucleofection, or transduction in dividing and/or non-dividing cell types; experience with primary cells is a plus.
- Experience contributing to experimental design, data interpretation, and recommendation of next-step studies.
- Ability to manage multiple experiments or workstreams with general guidance and communicate results clearly to scientific stakeholders.
- Experience with CRISPR gene editing technologies is a plus.
- Familiarity with Illumina sequencing workflows is a plus.
Attributes for Success.- Detail-oriented & motivated
- Willingness to learn
- Flexible mindset
- Clear and friendly communication
- Team-first attitude
Compensation and benefits.The anticipated base salary range for this role is $110,000 - $120,000. Final offers depend on experience, skills, and other job-related factors. All employees are eligible for new hire equity, an annual bonus, comprehensive health coverage, and discretionary paid time off.
