Job Description

Job Summary:  

The Scientist I will design and conduct molecular and cell biology experiments relevant to retinal disease biology and viral (AAV-based) retinal gene therapies, in collaboration with a Principal Scientist and Chief Scientific and Development Officer. Additionally, the Scientist will supervise laboratory operations, co-author manuscripts and conference presentations, and interpret and present data to key internal and external stakeholders. The Scientist will play a key role in strategic efforts by the team to identify new retinal disease targets and indications and assess the feasibility of clinically-relevant therapeutic candidates, including AAV gene therapies and small/large molecules, for modifying disease biology. In addition, this role will involve the sourcing of CROs and service providers for in vitro and in vivo studies and project management.

Duties/Responsibilities:  

· Maintain mammalian cell cultures that support in vitro disease modeling platforms, including iPSC human and animal cell lines and organoid systems.

· Perform molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA purification, qPCR, ddPCR, RT-qPCR, and NGS analyses.

· Develop and optimize potency assays to assess gene therapy product activity and functionality.

· Collaborate with external vendors and CROs for assay validation and transfer.

· Accurately record, document, interpret experimental data, and present study results to multidisciplinary teams.

· Prepare and review protocols, laboratory documentation, inventory, technical reports, and standard operation procedures (SOPs).

· Ensure compliance with biosafety and regulatory guidelines.

· Independently work in a fast-paced and collaborative environment.

Required Skills/Abilities: 

Candidates should possess:

· Hands-on experience with cell culture (mammalian and iPSC cell lines) to design, create and maintain target-appropriate cell models for use in potency assays for multiple gene therapy programs. Experience with retinal cell models is preferred.

· Experience designing AAV vector sequences and derisking approaches to ensure high potency and safety using computational tools and in vitro and in vivo assays

· Proficiency in cell and molecular biology techniques such as cloning, qPCR, digital PCR, Western blotting, and ELISA.

· Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and eagerness to learn new techniques.

· Advanced computer skills with software like Word, Excel, GraphPad, PowerPoint, Photoshop, and SnapGene.

· Ability to design, execute, and analyze cell-based experiments and present results.

Supervisory Responsibilities:  

Scientist I may potentially supervise Associate Scientist in collaboration with the Principal Scientist.

Education and Experience:

· A Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Ophthalmology, Pharmacology, Biology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.

· 3-4 years of post-degree experience in gene therapy or related research.

· Hands-on experience with potency assay development and AAV vector characterization.

· Preferred experience with viral vectors (AAV or Lenti-vectors) and iPSC line culture, maintenance, clone selection, and banking.

· Strong background in ocular gene therapy, including in vivo studies in small and large animals, is a plus.

· Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.

· Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Physical Requirements:

The candidate must be able to perform lab work, operate equipment, and occasionally perform tasks requiring manual dexterity and mobility in the lab.

Location:

On-site at Opus Genetics laboratory in Durham, NC.

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.   Opus Genetics is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law.   

Job Tags

Similar Jobs