Analytical Development Scientist / Sr. Scientist (Molecular Biology)

We seek an innovative, talented and experienced Analytical Development Scientist/Sr Scientist (Molecular Biology) to join our team in developing and executing assays for release and characterization of plasmids and the transgene of AAV vectors.

Responsibilities:

• Leverages strong understanding of modern molecular biology techniques (including NGS and Sanger sequencing, electrophoresis, PCR/ddPCR/qPCR based methods, enzymatic approaches, southern blotting, CE and HPLC-based methods) to develop and execute assays for characterization of plasmid and viral DNA, including impurities, truncations, SNPs, and other modifications. Designs, assesses and interprets experimental data
• Responsible for management of outsourced plasmid manufacture and QC for research-grade through GMP plasmid, working with CMOs and CROs and managing internal inventory and QC
• Responsible for IND-enabling characterization of therapeutic and reporter viral transgenes, using a variety of methodologies
• Involved in plasmid design, synthesis, cloning, and screening. Works with the Discovery and Process Development teams to determine key Quality Attributes for plasmid DNA used for production and to optimize plasmid production and manufacture
• Authors SOPs and technical reports, using an understanding of assay qualification and requirements for product release
• Demonstrates innovative design, development and execution of projects through literature review and scientific teamwork. May manage Associates in either assay development or assay execution/routine testing. Reviews data and supports troubleshooting; manages deviations
• Contributes to building a culture that embraces continuous learning, improvement and innovation, and encourages team members to expand their technical skill base and deepen their gene therapy expertise. Maintains a current awareness and contributes to current scientific literature; actively applies new concepts and technologies as appropriate. Leads and supports research initiatives such as new technology development and continuous improvement projects

Requirements:

• PhD (Molecular Biology or related field) with 2+ years’ experience, MS with 5+ years’ experience, or BS with 10+ years’ experience in molecular biology and/or analytical development/QC of nucleotide products
• Extensive working knowledge of DNA Sequencing and DNA-based assays, including NGS and Sanger sequencing, electrophoresis, PCR/ddPCR/qPCR based methods, enzymatic approaches, southern blotting, CE and HPLC-based methods
• Working knowledge of bioinformatics for the analysis of sequencing (NGS) data
• Knowledge of cloning techniques and construct design
• Experience managing CROs/CMOs is desirable, as is experience with inventory management
• Understanding of basic principles of analytical development for the design and execution of robust analytical methods is required
• Successful demonstrated ability to work independently and lead others in designing and developing experiments, analyzing and interpreting data in a rigorous way
• Ability to multi-task and support more than one project simultaneously
• Ability to work in a team-based environment, cooperatively and supportive of multiple viewpoints and approaches
• Understanding and knowledge of key scientific software programs used for DNA analysis
• Strong organizational skills, analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication skills both written and oral with demonstrated ability to present ideas and information and data effectively via one on one discussions, team meetings and partnership interactions

We are 4D Molecular Therapeutics (4DMT) -- a global leader in gene therapy product research & development using scientific innovation to unlock the full potential of gene therapy for patients with genetic diseases. Our goal is to design and develop transformative gene therapy products using our proprietary adeno-associated virus variants platform to treat serious unmet medical conditions.  

While AAV gene therapy pioneers are making great strides with the first wave of products, hurdles still exist with the use of 1st & 2nd generation vectors (naturally occurring primitive viral capsids).  4DMT’s next-generation Therapeutic Vector Evolution platform generates targeted, optimized and proprietary AAV vectors that have the potential to overcome the delivery and immunological challenges currently facing the field, ultimately unlocking the full potential of gene therapy.

We invite all of you who share our passion and vision in creating the ultimate gene therapy products to cure severe genetic and rare diseases with high unmet medical need.  We seek the best people in the industry who identify with our mission and innovative results-driven approach. We offer an inspiring and collaborative environment that encourages individual contributions, recognizes performance in multiple ways, offers uniquely generous benefits and provides challenging opportunities for career development.