Associate Scientist/Sr Research Associate - Genomics

Fate Therapeutics is currently seeking a talented and highly motivated individual with a strong background in Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to join a multidisciplinary team dedicated to the discovery of novel cellular therapeutics.

The candidate will play a key role in Fate’s Genomics Core developing novel NGS assays to perform genomic and transcriptomic characterization of Fate’s iPSC derived, off-the-shelf NK and T cell products. The successful candidate must have strong expertise in standard molecular biology techniques including the isolation and QC of DNA and RNA and the generation of NGS libraries (e.g., DNA-seq, RNAseq, ATAC-seq, Methyl-seq, Chip-seq, etc.).  The position will require innovative thinking, strong independent and collaborative research abilities, and excellent oral and written communication skills.

This is a full-time, bench-level position reporting to the Associate Director, Genomics and is located at the Company’s corporate headquarters in San Diego, California.

Responsibilities:

• Perform general molecular biology tasks including nucleic acid extraction, DNA/RNA handling, quantitation and quality assessment techniques.

• Assessment of RNA gene expression using qRT-PCR and/or digital PCR.

• Conduct NGS protocols including, but not limited to, sample QC, library preparation and targeted amplicon NGS.

• Assess the quality and quantity of respective NGS libraries using appropriate equipment (Qubit, Bioanalyzer, Tapestation, and qPCR).

• Operating Next Generation Sequencers (Illumina Nextseq and Miseq).

• Develop and/or optimize single-cell NGS assays or genomics methods under direct supervision.

• Write, review, revise, and follow SOPs within the document management system.

• Maintain detailed, accurate and up-to-date lab records and notebooks.

Qualifications:

• B.S./M.S. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry or related discipline plus 5+ years hands-on laboratory experience.

• Extensive experience in standard molecular biology techniques including the isolation and manipulation of both DNA and RNA is required.

• Extensive experience with standard quantification assays such as PCR, qPCR, qRTPCR and digital PCR.

• Experience with Illumina platforms, including the generation and sequencing of libraries is required.

• Experience in working with FFPE and other clinical sample handling is preferred.

• Experience with high throughput robotics (e.g., Agilent Bravo, Biomek FXP, Hamilton Star, etc.) is preferred.

• Excellent creativity, technical decision-making, and trouble shooting skills.

• Demonstrated good organizational, interpersonal and customer service skills is required.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

• Will require working with blood and cell lines of human and animal origin

• Will require working with hazardous materials

• 100% on-site work at corporate headquarters in San Diego, CA

• Occasional evening and weekend work will be required

The preceding job description indicates the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. Additional and incidental duties related to the primary duties may be required from time to time.