Position Summary

The SeniorResearch Associate, Molecular Biodistribution executes biodistribution and gene expression assessment experiments.  This role is responsible for executing fit-for-purpose molecular assays, generating high-quality tissue distribution and transgene expression data, and interpreting results to inform candidate selection, dose strategy, safety assessment, and support regulatory submissions.

The role partners closely with Product Development, Translation Medicine, Tech Ops, and Research and Development among other functions.  The successful candidate combines hands-on technical experience with scientific judgment in assay development, data analysis and interpretation, and cross-functional communication.

This position will be onsite in RTP, NC and will report to the Director, Product Development Cores.

Job Responsibilities

Assay Development and Execution

• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot molecular assays to quantify vector genomes, transgene expression, and related biomarkers in tissues and biofluids.

• Apply and oversee quantitative PCR-based and related molecular methods, including qPCR, ddPCR, RT-qPCR, and other nucleic acid quantification approaches.

• Establish assay controls, standards, acceptance criteria, normalization strategies, and data quality practices appropriate for regulated and non-regulated studies.

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders external partners to ensure reliable assay execution, method transfer, and sample analysis.

• Drive continuous improvement in assay sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility, and operational scalability.

Data Analysis and Interpretation

• Analyze and interpret biodistribution and gene expression datasets to support program decisions in research and development.

• Assess vector genome copy number, transgene RNA expression, and relationships across dose, tissue, timepoint, and platform.

• Identify technical or biological sources of variability and recommend follow-up experiments or analytical refinements.

• Summarize findings in clear scientific narratives for study reports, governance discussions, and regulatory documentation.

• Present results and recommendations to cross-functional teams and senior stakeholders.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, pharmacology, bioanalytical sciences, genetics, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline with 5+ years’ related work experience; OR Master’s degree in molecular biology, pharmacology, bioanalytical sciences, genetics, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline with 2+ years’ related work experience

• Experience in biotech, pharma, CRO, or academic translational research settings supporting genetic medicine or related modalities

• Direct experience executing and interpreting biodistribution and gene expression studies for gene therapy, especially AAV-based programs

• Hands-on experience with nucleic acid extraction from tissues and biofluids and with quantitative molecular assay platforms such as ddPCR, qPCR, and RT-qPCR

• Experience supporting preclinical drug development, including non-GLP and/or GLP studies, assay qualification, and regulated documentation

• Demonstrated understanding of nonclinical development considerations for genetic medicines, including tissue tropism, vector persistence, transgene expression, and safety assessment

Preferred Education, Experience and Skills

• Experience with AAV gene therapy development across multiple serotypes, capsids, promoters, or routes of administration

• Experience writing data reports and communicating findings and conclusions to scientific personnel

• Knowledge of statistical and data visualization approaches used for complex multidimensional nonclinical datasets