Scientist, Protein Engineering

JOB PURPOSE

Sana Biotechnology is looking to expand our team with hard-working individuals who believe in the potential of cells as engineered medicines. We are looking for enthusiastic scientists to forward our novel targeted gene therapy platform. The candidate will be working in vibrant research environment with cross-functional connections to technical operations and pharmacology groups. Candidates should have the vision to do creative things and the determination to execute that vision.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop Sana gene therapy platform for use in various cell systems
• Characterization of gene expression and cell-identity markers in mammalian cells using flow cytometry, microscopy, and qPCR
• Design and engineering of protein scaffolds for targeted gene therapy
• Assay development for testing novel protein vectors that support our platform technology
• Provides mentorship to others by leading in presentations and scientific discussion
• Design and execute in vitro studies to demonstrate viral vector-mediated gene transfer in primary cell systems
• Understand and apply relevant scientific literature to the design of experimental protocols. This may include literature from outside of the Scientist's primary field of research

QUALIFICATIONS

Basic Qualifications

PhD in scientific discipline with at least 2+ years with laboratory experience in an academic or industry setting or a Masters' degree in a scientific specialty with a minimum of five years of experience and proven proficiency in independent research and in the design of laboratory experiments and techniques may provide the necessary experience.

• A strong self-starter, independent thinker, with a strong attention to detail
• Well versed in a wide array of laboratory techniques and experienced in their use. Strong publication record from graduate and post doctoral work is expected
• Experienced with interpersonal skills and an ability to adapt communication style to interact effectively with a range of collaborators including research associates, technical experts, computational biologists, cell biologists, and therapeutic teams
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, attention to detail and data quality, and experience working on diverse collaborative teams
• Experience with gene therapy approaches, including lentiviral transduction
• Working safely in person on a predictable and regular in-person basis is an essential job function for this position and the Company requires that all individuals working in-person, subject to certain exceptions, be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications include:

• Experience in antibody discovery or engineering is a plus
• Expertise in structural virology or viral cell biology is a plus
• Advance experience in protein engineering is a plus, including relevant skills:
  • Ability to analyze sequence data in support of protein design
  • Familiarity with experimental & empirical approaches (ideally high throughput) for testing computational protein predictions (i.e. must be able to interface with these experimental teams)
• Demonstrated ability in working with highly skilled teams in a fast-paced, collaborative, and technical environment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Carrying, handling and reaching for objects up to 25 lbs.
• Prolonged standing and/or sitting
• Exposure to hazardous/toxic/dangerous chemicals
• Manual dexterity required to operate office and lab equipment

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The job description listed above is representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

At Sana, we believe that a diverse workforce strengthens us as a company and helps us to achieve our mission to meaningfully change the outcome of many human diseases. This belief is a pillar of our business and is critical to our success. Our goal is that Sana is the place for talented people to bring their authentic selves to work, to have a great career and to deeply, positively impact patients.

The Company is committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental or sensory disability (including the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability), genetic information, actual or perceived HIV or Hepatitis C infection, medical condition (cancer or a record or history of cancer and genetic characteristics), marital status, sexual orientation, sexual preference, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), disability, veteran status, political ideology, taking or requesting statutorily protected leave, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.

Core to our values, we believe there is nothing more important than the health and wellness of you and your family. We cover 100% of the cost for employee health coverage and offer generous time-off, parental leave, short and long term disability, financial wellness programs, a 401(k) Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, commuter subsidy and a variety of wellness offerings to support each person individually.