Scientist I, Preclinical Research

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Scientist to join our Preclinical Development team to support the validation of gene editing therapies and determine cellular and molecular activity. Reporting to the Principal Scientist, this position will support the development of a gene-editing project working on Hemophilia. You will use your experience with single-plex and multiplex digital droplet PCR, culturing primary cells, and purifying/isolating gDNA and mRNA from cells and animal tissue to contribute to gene-editing advancements focused on hemophilia.  The ideal candidate will have strong skills in cell and molecular biology and will be motivated to collaborate with teams to optimize assays to deliver groundbreaking therapies. This role will be based in Emeryville, California.

How you'll contribute

• As a member of a dynamic and scientifically rigorous team, you will contribute to the development of meaningful gene-editing advancements focused on Hemophilia
• Harvest cells and tissue in preparation for various assays such as PCR for next-generation sequencing  
• Design, execute and analyze cellular and molecular assays to generate data to determine on-target and off-target activity
• Analyze tissues through molecular experiments and manage data appropriately
• Observe target penetration of therapy through methods such as FACS, ELISA, and next-gen sequencing technologies
• Transfect cells and prepare and optimize for analysis; work with computation teams to drive analysis and interpretation of activity
• Perform molecular/cellular cloning
• Collaborate with computational scientists and engineers to analyze data and present findings to the larger team
• Purify/Isolate gDNA and mRNA from cells and animal tissue 

What you bring

• Ph.D. in biology with at least two years of industry experience or BS/MS with at least three years of highly relevant industry experience in a closely related discipline
• Advanced proficiency with single-plex and multiplex digital droplet PCR
• Expertise in culturing primary cells, purifying/isolating gDNA and mRNA from cells and animal tissue, and transfections of primary cells 
• Demonstrated experience working with primary cell systems and performing downstream molecular assays
• A strong track record of working with large data and applying algorithms
• Experience with ELISA and/or electrochemiluminescence (ECL) based protein detection methods (e.g., Meso Scale Discovery)
• Understanding or experience with Next-Generation Sequencing workflow 
• Experience in molecular cloning, vector building, and CRISPR-based gene editing systems and knock-in strategies
• Understanding of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) technology and mRNA-based therapeutics
• Effective oral and written communication skills, particularly when collaborating with other teams with limited knowledge of your area of expertise
• Extremely organized and able to efficiently manage your time and workflow, including skillfully prioritizing both long-term projects and day-to-day responsibilities
• Ability to quickly learn and adapt to new software tools (Google Suite, Slack, Geneious, CRISPR and Off-target algorithms, NGS)
• A highly collaborative and team-oriented mindset, who thrives in a fast-moving, results-oriented startup environment 

California Pay Transparency Disclosure:

This position is classified as exempt under the Federal Labor Standards Act.  This position's anticipated base salary range will be $115,000 to $145,000.  You will also be eligible to receive equity, bonuses, and a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits depending on the position offered. Please note that individual total compensation for this position will be determined at the Company’s sole discretion and may vary based on location, skill level, years and depth of relevant experience, and education. 

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About Metagenomi

Metagenomi is a gene editing company committed to developing potentially curative therapeutics by leveraging a proprietary toolbox of next-generation gene editing systems to accurately edit DNA where current technologies cannot. Our metagenomics-powered discovery platform and analytical expertise reveal novel cellular machinery sourced from otherwise unknown organisms. We adapt and forge these naturally evolved systems into powerful gene editing systems that are ultra-small, extremely efficient, highly specific and have a decreased risk of immune response. These systems fuel our pipeline of novel medicines and can be leveraged by partners. Our goal is to revolutionize gene editing for the benefit of patients around the world. For more information, please visit https://metagenomi.c