Full Job Description
We are seeking a Scientist or Senior Scientist to lead the molecular biology function within our Cell Sciences team. This role serves as the molecular biology subject matter expert supporting cell line development, owning vector and construct design strategy and the nucleic acid analytics that underpin clone characterization. It is well suited to a scientist who combines deep hands-on molecular biology expertise with the judgment to design experimental strategy independently and the interest in developing junior scientific staff.
This is a full-time onsite position in Bothell, WA.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design and execution of molecular biology strategies supporting cell line development programs, including expression vector design, construct generation, and nucleic acid analytics for bi-specific and multi-specific antibodies and ADCs.
- Design mammalian expression vectors and cloning strategies for complex multi-chain and multi-specific antibody formats; evaluate and optimize vector architecture, regulatory elements, and selection systems to improve expression and product quality.
- Develop, qualify, and troubleshoot digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) assays for absolute nucleic acid quantification, including transgene copy number determination, and gene expression analysis in support of clone characterization and cell line stability assessment.
- Perform and oversee routine and high-throughput molecular biology workflows, including library preparation, PCR, restriction endonuclease digestion, Gibson Assembly, Golden Gate Assembly, bacterial transformations, and plasmid purification.
- Serve as the molecular biology subject matter expert to the Cell Line Development group, partnering with cell culture, protein sciences, and analytical teams to align construct design with expression, productivity, and developability objectives.
- Supervise, train, and develop 1-2 Research Associates; set experimental priorities, review data for scientific rigor, and ensure adherence to documentation standards.
- Evaluate and implement new molecular biology technologies, laboratory automation, and next-generation sequencing approaches to improve throughput, data quality, and program timelines.
- Analyze, interpret, and present experimental data to cross-functional teams and senior leadership; author technical reports, protocols, and sections of IND-enabling and regulatory documentation.
- Maintain detailed and reproducible records of experimental procedures and results in electronic lab notebooks.
- Manage multiple projects and shifting priorities simultaneously in a fast-paced, milestone-driven environment.
Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
- Demonstrated expertise in molecular cloning and construct design, including PCR, Gibson Assembly, Golden Gate Assembly, restriction endonuclease digestion, bacterial transformation, and plasmid preparation.
- Hands-on experience developing and executing digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) and/or quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays, including assay design, optimization, and data analysis.
- Experience designing mammalian expression vectors for therapeutic proteins; experience with multi-specific antibody or ADC formats is strongly preferred.
- Working knowledge of cell line development workflows and an understanding of how construct design influences expression, productivity, and clone stability.
- Experience with next-generation sequencing workflows and data interpretation is a plus.
- Liquid handler and laboratory automation experience is a plus.
- Prior experience mentoring, training, or supervising junior scientific staff.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of presenting data to cross-functional audiences.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Comfortable working in a dynamic environment with shifting priorities.
Compensation and Benefits:
The expected base salary range for this position is $115,000 - $145,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to a candidate's level qualifications, experience, and skills.
While most offers typically fall within the low to mid-point of the range, we may extend an offer toward the higher end for exceptional candidates whose background and expertise exceeds the requirements of the role.
SystImmune offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 100% paid employee premiums for medical/dental/vision, also STD, LTD, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match of up to 3% and a vesting schedule of only 5 years, 15 PTO days per year, sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays and MORE.
