Sr. Research Associate, Target Biology (Functional Genomics)

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Associate to support our functional genomics group in South San Francisco. The successful candidate will play a key role enabling target ID/validation efforts and providing deep mechanistic insight into existing pipeline assets by utilizing cutting edge CRISPR-based screens at scale. As a core member of the biology group, they will collaborate closely with other functional groups to drive project momentum and communicate key biology updates cross-functionally.

• Engineer and rigorously validate cell lines to enable CRISPR-based screens.
• Meticulously maintain cell lines at scale needed to support genome-wide screens.
• Assist in preparing samples for sequencing and in subsequent data analysis.
• Validate screen hits and provide support as needed to enable pipeline advancement decisions for any promising targets.
• Collect, analyze, and summarize data for presentations, reports, publications, and patents.
• Presenting data and findings at various venues, including project team, department, and company meetings.

Professional Experience/Qualifications

• BS/MS in biochemistry, biology, or a closely related area of study with 2-5 years of experience (MS can be included).
• Extensive experience in mammalian cell culture.
• Experience in cell line engineering using lentiviral vectors and/or other approaches, preferably with a strong emphasis on CRISPR/Cas9 cell line generation, gene editing, and/or HDR.
• Basic molecular biology skills needed to support genetic screening, cell line characterization, and vector construction (e.g. ligation and assembly based molecular cloning, PCR, DNA/RNA isolation, qRT-PCR, Western blot, etc.).
• Familiarity with statistical analysis and experience with analysis programs (e.g. GraphPad Prism, Microsoft Excel, etc.).
• Nice to have: experience in FACS and/or immunofluorescence based high-content imaging; experience supporting genome-wide CRISPR-based screens; some proficiency in Python and/or R.
• Willingness to learn new areas of biology or technical skills based on project need.
• Exceptional scientific rigor and commitment to the highest-quality research with outstanding organizational abilities and scientific execution.
• A highly engaged, self-starter who is creative, innovative, communicative and possesses both a collaborative and goal/results-orientated style.
• Desire to work in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment, while employing tact, patience, diplomacy, and a collaborative spirit.
• Outstanding decision making, organizational and analytical skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.