Sr Scientist, Vector Optimization

Join the Spark Team

 

We were born of innovation, springing from the curiosity, imagination and dedication of remarkable scientists and healthcare visionaries. Our shared mission is to unlock the power of gene therapy to accelerate healthcare transformation. 

 

We don’t follow footsteps. We create the path.

 

 

Primary Duties

The Sr. Research Scientist is a key member of the Discovery Research Team and participates in the development of Spark’s gene delivery platforms. They will actively participate in the development of novel gene regulatory elements, facilitating translation from in vitro through in vivo proof of concept. 

 

They will be responsible for:

 

• Developing and implementing strategies to enable spatial and/or temporal control of transgene expression for gene therapy purposes.
• Collaborating with other Translational Research Scientists to design and conduct in vitro studies and design and coordinate in vivo experiments to optimize development of expression vectors with improved regulatory control.
• Initiating and overseeing joint programs and collaborations with external parties.
• Writing study reports, manuscripts and present results at appropriate scientific meetings.

 

The Senior Research Scientist position requires extensive experience with molecular biology, biochemistry and gene expression analyses:

 

• Design and construction of controllable gene expression cassettes for spatial and/or temporal regulation of transgene expression from target cell types.
• Practical experience with synthetic biology and genetic circuit engineering utilizing high throughput approaches.
• Experience with design, execution and data analysis related to experimental studies utilizing both in vitro and in vivo models.
• Familiarity with gene therapy and/or AAV is preferred.

 

Responsibilities

Design, characterize and validate novel gene expression cassettes. This includes executing experiments on the bench, extensive literature review and championing product candidate development.

Design experiments, organize, discuss, and record experimental data.

Generate technical reports, prepare presentation slides, generate novel concepts.   

Trainings, lab meetings and administration work

 

Education and Experience Requirements

• Typically has a PhD in a biological discipline and 3-5 years of related experience. Candidate may also have a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree with significant research experience (>8 years).”
• Hands-on research experience with high throughput gene expression analyses (e.g. transcriptional, translational, post-translational, etc.).
• Familiarity with designing genetic control elements using a combination of molecular, cellular and in vitro/in vivo techniques.
• Experience with studies in laboratory animal models is preferred.
• Experience with AAV vectors or non-viral gene therapy is preferred but not required.

 

Key Skills, Abilities, and Competencies

• Experience in general and advanced lab techniques such as plasmid design and construction, molecular cloning, qPCR, cell culture, ELISA, plate-based luciferase and/or enzymatic activity assays, SDS-PAGE/western blotting, etc.
• Experience with studies in laboratory animal models is preferred.
• Familiarity with IND enabling studies, regulatory filings, and GLP studies is a plus.
• Strong analytical skills and problem-solving capabilities.
• Proven ability to work independently in hands-on laboratory setting, self-motivated to learn and develop new techniques, perform multiple tasks simultaneously, keep accurate records, follow instructions, and comply with company policies.
• Excellent communication skills (both oral and written).
• Familiar with computer software commonly used in bio/pharma industries.
• Works with colleagues as a team player.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Strong publication record is a plus.
• Experience managing external collaborations is a plus.

Spark takes into consideration a combination of candidate’s education, training, and experience as well as the position’s scope and complexity, the discretion and latitude required in the role, and external market and internal value when determining a salary for potential new employees.  The base salary range for this position is currently from $105,800 to $158,800.  

 

Spark Therapeutics does not accept unsolicited resumes/candidate profiles from any source other than directly from candidates. Any unsolicited resume/candidate profile submitted through our website or to personal ema