Scientist, Discovery Research

Scientist, Discovery Research
Research and Development - San Diego, CA - Full Time (On-Site)
Capstan Therapeutics, Inc. is a privately held biotechnology company dedicated to advancing in vivo cell reprogramming. The core platform technology comprises proprietary targeted lipid nanoparticles (tLNPs) that are composed of LNPs conjugated with a recombinant protein binder, such as a monoclonal antibody. tLNPs are designed to deliver payloads, including mRNA or gene editing tools, capable of reprogramming specific cell types in vivo. The platform technology has the potential to generate transformative therapies with possible applications across a broad range of disease areas, including autoimmune disorders, oncology, fibrosis, and monogenic blood disorders.
The Opportunity
Capstan is searching for a highly motivated Scientist in Protein Engineering to support CAR T design and optimization, collaborating with both internal and external teams. The focus of the role will be optimizing novel mRNA-based CAR T constructs for use in in vivo CAR T applications across multiple therapeutic indications.
Responsibilities & Duties:

• Spearhead the identification of product candidates by formulating and executing comprehensive research plans.
• Participate in all aspects of antibody discovery and receptor engineering including library design, screening, and binder hit identification to meet program goals
• Design CARs, multi-format antibody constructs, and other protein-based molecules for cell-based and recombinant expression
• Design molecular biology strategies for cloning constructs of interest and building libraries
• Design and create plasmids and lentivirus vectors
• Utilize advanced techniques such as electroporation, viral delivery, and nanoparticle transfections to engineer mammalian cells.
• Employ flow cytometry and cell-based functional assays to meticulously characterize mammalian cells.
• Execute precise mammalian cell culture procedures with aseptic technique.
• Maintain adherence to rigorous laboratory standards, encompassing meticulous documentation in an online laboratory notebook system, validation of instruments and reagents, and stringent personal safety measures.
• Foster collaborative relationships within a cross-functional team setting, serving as a pivotal member of project teams dedicated to developing, refining, and standardizing cell-based assays across multiple programs.
• Demonstrate adeptness in organizing and conveying data through written and oral communication channels, actively contributing to project team meetings.
   

Requirements/Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in a scientific discipline (preferably Protein Engineering, Immunology, Cell Biology, or related fields) and at least 2 years of industry experience or equivalent experience
• Experience in structure-based engineering of CARs, antibodies, and/or other proteins
• Technical proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including Gibson, Golden Gate, and library construction
• Strong experience in mammalian display and NGS methodologies for antibody discovery and CAR-T engineering is highly preferred
• Prior experience in antibody therapeutics development, especially bispecific or ADC, is a plus
• Proven track record in producing lentivirus/retrovirus and engineering primary T cells for CAR or TCR production
• Familiarity with non-viral gene transfer methods for engineering mammalian cells is a plus
• Experience in designing and executing assays to evaluate T cell functionality, including assessments of cytotoxicity, activation, proliferation, and cytokine production
• Knowledge of plate-based assay development with proficiency in utilizing automated liquid handling solutions is advantageous
• Familiarity with scientific data analysis software such as GraphPad Prism, FlowJo, or CellEngine and analyzing large datasets with R, Python, or other computational tools is advantageous
• Demonstrated ability of conceiving and executing research projects independently, while openly communicating and contributing to team efforts
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities, with effective management of multiple projects, coupled with proficient documentation practices, including thorough record-keeping in electronic lab notebooks
• Strong team player with excellent communication skills and interpersonal skills
• Ability to be flexible, responsive, and highly organized with strong attention to detail
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment

Salary & Benefits Offerings:
 

• Salary range is $105,000 - $140,000/year (depending on experience)
• Performance bonus
• Employee Stock Option Program
• 401(k) Program including an employer matching contribution
• Medical coverage
• Dental coverage
• Vision coverage
• Short- and Long-Term Disability coverage
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Optional Dependent Care Account
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Company Paid Holidays
• Paid Sick Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Onsite Fully Stocked Kitchens