Position Summary
AskBio is seeking a highly motivated, enthusiastic, and collaborative Senior Research Associate to support the development and discovery of next-generation gene therapies utilizing state-of-the-art non-viral delivery technologies. The Senior Research Associate will work directly with the non-viral delivery team to conduct experiments that advance our preclinical therapeutic pipeline.
The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with standard molecular biology techniques, including: (1) isolation of DNA, RNA, and protein from cells and tissues; and (2) quantitative PCR (qPCR), RT-PCR, ddPCR, ELISA, SDS-PAGE, and Western blot. Prior experience with research-grade lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation is preferred.
This position is based in Morrisville, North Carolina.
Job Responsibilities- Perform plasmid purification, genomic DNA extraction, RNA extraction, and PCR-based assays (PCR, qPCR, ddPCR)
- Conduct small-scale LNP formulation and analytical characterization for early research and preclinical in vivo and in vitro studies
- Perform in vitro cell-based assays, including plasmid transfection, AAV transduction, LNP transfection, and primary cell culture
- Analyze data and effectively communicate results through formal reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders
- Develop detailed experimental protocols and maintain an electronic laboratory notebook in accordance with good documentation and data integrity practices
- Maintain inventory and order reagents and materials to support timely project execution
- Ensure laboratory areas are clean, organized, and adequately stocked with necessary equipment and supplies
Minimum Requirements - Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, Biochemistry, or a related field with 5+ years of research experience; OR a Master's degree in molecular biology, Biochemistry, or a related field with 2+ years of research experience
- Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA isolation, SDS-PAGE, qPCR, and Western blot
- Clear understanding of in vivo gene therapy approaches, including adeno-associated virus (AAV) and lipid nanoparticles (LNP)
- Experience with cell line maintenance, including primary cell culture
- Strong technical laboratory skills with the ability to independently execute protocols and experiments
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work independently in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
- Ability to follow established molecular biology SOPs with minimal supervision
- Highly organized, self-motivated, and able to work both independently and within cross-functional teams
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including accurate documentation practices
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Strong problem-solving skills and sound scientific judgment
Preferred Education, Experience and Skills- Experience with research-grade LNP formulation and analytical characterization
- Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS)
- Understanding of statistics and data analysis/interpretation
- Experience using SnapGene and GraphPad
