Senior Scientist, Preclinical Development

We are seeking an independent, goal-oriented and motivated Senior Scientist to evaluate novel genome editing systems for in vivo therapeutics. As a member of our growing pre-clinical research team, this position will play a crucial role in enabling next generation gene editing therapeutics, including the characterization of the therapeutic target and the effects of gene editing in both cells and animal models. You will have the opportunity to make a lasting impact as you partner with our in vivo, process development, and NGS teams in order to advance projects towards the clinical phase. This role will be based in Emeryville, California.

How you’ll contribute: 

• Manage direct report(s) and workflows including: 
• Transfection of primary cells and cell lines to support lead finding and selection 
• Molecular analysis of in vitro and in vivo editing outcomes using next generation sequencing, quantitative PCR and RNA sequencing
• Biochemistry techniques for evaluating the effect of gene editing (Western Blot, ELISA, activity assays)
• Utilize non-viral delivery approaches to plan in vivo studies and perform various molecular analyses to support therapeutic programs (handling animals not required)
• Collaborate internally and with external partners on the optimization of non-viral delivery approaches
• Independently trouble-shoot technical issues as needed
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and present results at internal team, external partner, and company-wide meetings
• Contribute to the selection/design of therapeutic strategies
• Provide mentorship / training to research associates and scientists as appropriate
• Prepare accurate and timely data summaries and contribute to writing of reports, papers, and patent manuscripts
• Present at internal and external scientific meetings

What you bring:

• PhD in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, gene editing, or elated discipline and at least five years of relevant post-graduate research molecular/cell biology gene therapy or gene editing experience
• Hands on experience with genome editing technologies and lipid nanoparticle technologies for nucleic acid delivery
• Industry management and therapeutic development experience
• Experience with aseptic cell culture techniques, including cell transfection, with quantitative PCR or digital droplet PCR
• Experience with biochemical analysis techniques (Western Blot, ELISA, Enzyme activity assays, Immunostaining) and NGS data generation and interpretation
• 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 the time and workflows of yourself and your direct report(s), including skillfully prioritizing both long-term projects and day-to-day responsibilities
• Ability to work independently as well as in a results-oriented team
• Able to quickly learn and adapt to new software tools (ex: Benchling, Geneious, Prism, etc.)
• Thrives in a fast-moving, results-oriented startup environment with urgent deadlines
• Self-motivated, passionate about your work, and eager to continuously learn

California Pay Transparency Disclosure:

This position is classified as an exempt position under the Federal Labor Standards Act.  The anticipated base salary range for this position will be $150,000 to $170,000.  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. 

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.co/.

What makes Metagenomi a uniq