Associate Scientist, Complex In Vitro Models

Company Overview

Strand Therapeutics is an early-stage biotechnology company utilizing synthetic biology to genetically program mRNA to deliver truly revolutionary immunotherapies.

Building on the idea of creating smart therapies based on Boolean logic circuits, Strand was started by biological engineers working together at MIT who were seeking to apply the concept of the emerging field of mRNA therapeutics. This collaboration led them to build their own mRNA “programming language,” creating the world’s first platform for mRNA smart therapies.

The founders and scientific advisors of Strand Therapeutics are made up of well-known and highly regarded individuals in both academia and the biotech industry. Our corporate headquarters is located in the Fenway district of Boston, Massachusetts with an additional site based in Watertown, Massachusetts.

Become the next standout single strand!

Job Summary:

Strand is looking to build a team that understands the value of working at a start-up. Joining the company now means having vast opportunities to learn and grow including having the exposure to all aspects of building a company. We are looking for people who have the enthusiasm and motivation to be a highly contributing member of a small team. This opportunity will offer the employee the ability to work closely with the founding team, as well as to form close partnerships with team members during the development and formation of the company.

We are looking for an Associate Scientist to join the Translational Biology group to conduct proof-of-concept, validation, mechanism of action and in vitro pharmacology studies to support multiple preclinical programs. You will be responsible for developing and executing patient-derived ex vivo assays, including 3D patient derived tumors models, organoids in immuno-oncology, organotypic tissue slices.  You will be passionate about scientific discovery, undeterred by bold challenges, and enjoy working as a team to develop the next generation of mRNA medicines. You should be highly organized, a critical thinker, adaptable to changing priorities, and possess a strong ability to collaborate effectively with teams of diverse backgrounds. 

Primary Responsibilities:

• Execute in vitro immuno-oncology related studies to support early discovery to pre-clinical development efforts.
• Design, execute and troubleshoot in vitro cultures of established and primary mammalian cell lines, patient tissues, patient-derived xenografts to support cell-based assays.
• Perform screening studies using complex translational assays (2D and 3D models, organotypic ex vivo cultures) to identify effective mRNA therapeutic candidates.
• Perform complex cell cultures of immune cells including T-cells, NK cells, dendritic cells, or macrophages and their co-culture with patient-derived tumor models.
• Perform flow cytometry, immunostaining, histology, cellular activation and differentiation, cytokine assays, MSD, ELISA, confocal/image related techniques etc., analyze and interpret results.
• Support propagation and maintenance of new and established patient derived tumor models.
• Support team members with new model and assay development.
• Ensure data collection is captured in electronic laboratory notebooks and databases.
• Assist with data collection, summarizing results in study reports, and providing regular updates at internal meetings. 

Qualifications:

• B.S. or M.S. in Biological Sciences, Bioengineering or related discipline. 
• 1-3+ years of experience working in a biotechnology, pharma, CRO or academic setting. 
• Working experience with mammalian cell culture required. 
• Experience working with 3D cell cultures such as spheroids or organoids preferred.
• Experience with one or more of the following methods and technologies: involving in vitro 3D cell-based assays, molecular biology including immunoassays, histology, immunostaining, immunohistochemisty, live imaging (Incucyte), confocal microscopy etc.
• Excellent problem-solving skills in assay design, data analysis and interpretation.
• Experience with high throughput assay design and assay scale up highly desirable.
• Ability to write, edit, and follow standard operating procedures, make careful detailed observations, maintain clear and complete records of lab work. 
• Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, Graphpad Prism, and ELN/LIMS for data entry, analysis, and presentation.
• High level of integrity and adherence to strict compliance standards.

Strand offers a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, team-focused work environment. We also offer a top-notch benefits package (health, dental, life, vacation, 401k, and commuter) and work/ life integration. Being part of the Strand team allows you to become part of a small team that supports professional development while working together to meet the company goals.

Strand Therapeutics is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis protected by applicable law. Strand does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from candidates.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: Commensurate with role and experience