About the job Senior Synthetic Biologist (Manager)
Key Responsibilities include:
Bring expertise with versatile gene editing tools allowing knock-in, knock-out, silencing and other genetic manipulation activities
Have an excellent understanding of standard wet lab activities related to engineering, testing and cell culture of mammalian and/or non-mammalian animal cells
Understand intricacies of flow cytometry and be able to apply results to drive experiments forward
Design, produce, and test novel gene editing constructs using molecular cloning and other techniques based on robust, well-controlled scientific experiments (including plasmid digestion, purification, ligation, transformation, and sequencing)
Holding and sharing a strong understanding of in vitro transcription to produce RNA from DNA templates
Holding and sharing a strong understanding of DNA/RNA extraction and downstream analytical assays such as qPCR and RT-qPCR
Assist in development of strategy and methods for primary and iPSC-derived cell culture, transfection, and cell-based assays
Execute and troubleshoot standard protocols, develop and adapt new protocols, and query literature to incorporate additional assays as needed
Stay abreast of new and emerging synthetic biology tools and technologies via frequent literature reviews and periodically attending scientific conferences
Independently plan and execute experiments and mentor team members on facets of experimental design
Document all experimental planning, progress, experimental data and genetic designs in electronic lab notebook, present research design and results to multi-disciplinary teams and leadership
Create and review experimental workflows and collect quantitative measurements for engineered cells including flow cytometry and multi-omics techniques
Manage a team of scientists including bioinformatisticians and synthetic biologists to perform multi-omic discovery, draw meaningful conclusions from data generated and analyzed, and direct synthetic biology workflows from the results
Analyze and distill insight from complex molecular data streams generated by own or other teams
Collaborate frequently with computational biologists, protein engineers and cell biologists to incorporate biological design principles and experimental datasets into the synthetic biology product development pipeline
Test and characterize molecular and cellular system targets using biochemistry, molecular biology and/or genetic approaches
Leverage knowledge of gene editing technologies to contribute scientifically to goals and strategy
Build out synthetic biology lab infrastructure
Develop and perform high-throughput pooled and arrayed functional genomic screens using high-dimensional genomic and cell-based functional readouts such as RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, flow cytometry, and high-content cell imaging in a matrix collaborative setting
Perform on- & off-target genome editing analysis using NGS-based sequencing methods.
The ideal candidate will possess the following qualities & qualifications:
PhD in biological or physical sciences or engineering discipline + 10 years of relevant post-graduate experience, or MS with 15 years of relevant post-graduate research experience.
Hands-on experience in genome editing experiments and analysis
Experience using bioinformatic and molecular biology software to select gRNA and design plasmid constructs
Solid cell and molecular biology concepts on mammalian or non-mammalian animal genome structure and organization and the control of gene expression and DNA repair
Experience in animal cell culture and functional assay development
Track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals or scientific conferences
Excellent communication and presentation skills to both technical and non-technical colleagues
Cross-functional work experience and highly collaborative attitude
Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities in a fast-paced, start-up environment
Demonstrated strong competence, hands-on experience and experimental design with a multitude of research techniques and methodologies in related field(s)
Manages, mentors and motivates staff
Applies conceptual knowledge to drive individual and group performance
Navigates change and establishes high performance standards
Sets appropriate timelines and expectations for self and team members
Delegates effectively
Sets direction in ambiguous and challenging situations
Applies scientific foundation to implement and drive change
Becomes knowledge resource for complex projects
Strong ability to identify and implement clear objectives for projects and team members as appropriate
Demonstrated ability to multitask, work in a dynamic and diverse project environment, and adapt to changing priorities
Ability to perform multiple technical tasks independently
Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain a detailed electronic laboratory notebook
Ability to work independently and as a team member
Strong oral and written communication skills
Ability to record and analyze data and interpret acceptability of data results
High degree of computer literacy and experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project)