Job Function: Discovery & Pre-Clinical/Clinical Development
Job Sub Function: Biological Research
Job Category:Scientific/Technology
All Job Posting Locations:Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
Job Description:We are searching for the best talent for a Principal Scientist, Vector Biology to be in Cambridge, MA.Purpose:We are seeking a Principal Scientist to spearhead receptor and viral-entry biology initiatives that translate mechanistic insight into therapeutic progress. Responsibilities include creating and validating cell-based assays for receptor localization and ligand/virus binding, dissecting entry pathways, and optimizing lentiviral transduction in coordination with cross-functional teams.
You will be responsible for:- Lead and contribute to research focused on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of enveloped virus entry.
- Design and execute experiments to characterize the interactions between viral glycoproteins and host cell receptors.
- Design, develop, and validate robust cell-based assays probing: receptor expression/localization and ligand/virus binding; internalization/endocytosis pathways; functional readouts by flow cytometry, high-content/fluorescence microscopy, and reporter assays.
- Utilize lentiviral vector systems to study the transduction of target cells and to develop novel gene delivery platforms.
- Establish scalable, reproducible workflows and SOPs; implement assay performance criteria and QC.
- Integrate data with cross-functional partners (protein/vector engineering, analytics, translational, process/CMC) to inform target selection, vector design, and process improvements.
- Present research findings at internal and external scientific meetings
Qualifications:- PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Virology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering or related field (or equivalent industry experience)
- 3-6 years of relevant industry experience with a record of leading scientific projects and/or teams.
- Deep hands-on expertise in mammalian cell culture and cell line engineering.
- Proven track record developing and running quantitative cell-based assays for membrane proteins/receptors (e.g., flow cytometry panels, internalization assays, high-content imaging).
- Practical knowledge of viral entry biology (receptor-ligand interactions; endocytic/internalization mechanisms) and ability to design mechanistic experiments.
- Direct experience with lentiviral vectors and transduction workflows, including assay development and optimization in cell lines and/or primary cells.
- Strong data analysis and scientific communication skills; demonstrated ability to drive decisions with clear, reproducible results.
- Experience with pseudovirus or live-virus entry/neutralization assays under BSL2/BSL2+ preferred
- High-throughput/automated assay development, liquid handling, and/or screening experience a plus
- Record of publications/patents in receptor biology, viral entry, or vector technologies.
Required Skills:Preferred Skills:Big Data Management, Critical Thinking, Data Reporting, Data Savvy, Drug Discovery Development, Molecular Diagnostics, Organizing, Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Problem Solving, Product Knowledge, Project Reporting, Project Schedule, Research Proposals, Scientific Research, Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), Standard Scientific Processes and Procedures, Strategic Thinking, Sustainability
The anticipated base pay range for this position is :$117,000.00 - $201,250.00
Additional Description for Pay Transparency:
Subject to the terms of their respective plans, employees are eligible to participate in the Company's consolidated retirement plan (pension) and savings plan (401(k)).
Subject to the terms of their respective policies and date of hire, employees are eligible for the following time off benefits:
• Vacation -120 hours per calendar year
• Sick time - 40 hours per calendar year; for employees who reside in the State of Colorado -48 hours per calendar year; for employees who reside in the State of Washington -56 hours per calendar year
• Holiday pay, including Floating Holidays -13 days per calendar year
• Work, Personal and Family Time - up to 40 hours per calendar year
• Parental Leave - 480 hours within one year of the birth/adoption/foster care of a child
• Bereavement Leave - 240 hours for an immediate family member: 40 hours for an extended family member per calendar year
• Caregiver Leave - 80 hours in a 52-week rolling period10 days
• Volunteer Leave - 32 hours per calendar year
• Military Spouse Time-Off - 80 hours per calendar year
For additional general information on Company benefits, please go to: - https://www.careers.jnj.com/employee-benefits
