Scientist/ Senior Scientist, Islet Biology, Gene Therapy Research

Position Summary

We are looking for a cell biologist with expertise in pancreatic islet biology to join our Gene Therapy Research Team. The Scientist/Senior Scientist will be integral to discovering and developing the next generation of gene therapies centered on treating unmet needs due to metabolic disease. Successful candidates will contribute to Fractyl’s pipeline with a primary focus on developing in vitro cell models and assays that support proof of concept and human/animal translation for the treatment of diabetes. The position requires enthusiasm, passion, attention to detail, team-orientation and an entrepreneurial spirit, and a desire to overcome obstacles to drive forward the program.

Primary Responsibilities

• As a pancreatic islet subject matter expert, contribute to Fractyl’s gene therapy programs to engineer the pancreas with properties that elicit important biological effects for disease targets
• Develop and characterize human and animal in vitro model systems to enable screening and optimization of AAV-based gene therapies
• Design and optimize in vitro assays to assess impact of AAV-based gene therapies on cell health and function
• Identify and bring to Fractyl new technologies and key biological concepts to support the mission of the gene therapy program
• Drive forward program goals to meet team objectives, working closely with CROs and internal teams
• Manage CRO activities including in vitro cell model development and assessing transgene expression and function
• Prepare technical reports, summaries, protocols, and quantitative analysis for all experimental results
• Perform all activities in compliance with applicable regulations, Fractyl’s policies and guidelines, including, but not limited to, timely documentation of activities and maintaining all required applicable training.
• Bring a “can do” spirit to work and deliver on other responsibilities as assigned.

Education or Certification Requirements

• PhD in a relevant research field preferred (or a Masters with 3+ years of industry experience in a highly-related research field)

Professional Work Experience

• 4+ years of relevant experience either in an academic or industry environment
• Experience in biotech and/or pharmaceutical industries preferred but not required
• Applicable experience in biotech, pharmaceutical and/or medical device industries preferred.
• Prior vocational experience in related fields a plus (i.e. Co-Ops, Internships, Fellowships, etc.).

Qualifications and Skills

• Extensive experience in primary mammalian cell culture and cell-based assays including beta-cell models. Experience working with primary pancreatic islets a plus. Experience with transfection and transduction techniques preferred but not required.
• Proficient in Flow Cytometry, Microscopy, IF imaging, ELISA and other immunochemical assays
• Proficient in molecular biology techniques, such as PCR, RT-PCR, sample preparation, and assay design
• Track record of challenging oneself to enhance scientific abilities

Other Essentials and Key Success Factors:

• Successful track record of working in high-growth and dynamic organizations
• Demonstrated record of intellectual curiosity, innovation and creative problem solving with an entrepreneurial spirit
• Ability to lead fast-paced projects with a keen sense of urgency to get the job done well
• Evidence of "hands-on" experience and expertise
• Proven and successful track record as a team-player and collaborator in small working environments
• Highly organized and detail oriented with a passion to deliver quality results
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with experience translating technical concepts into user-friendly documentation
• Highest levels of professionalism, confidence, personal values and ethical standards

Additional Position Requirements:

• Some travel (both local and international) for conferences and meeting with external partners may be necessary
• Local travel in the Greater-Boston area for CRO engagement and management will be required

The description and requirements outlined above are general; additional requirements may apply.