Arena BioWorks, located in Cambridge, MA, is a new biomedical research institute focused on uncovering the mechanisms of human disease to identify opportunities for therapeutic intervention. The Institute's private funding model allows Arena to advance novel therapeutics by forming and supporting biotech companies up to the early clinical/series B stage.
Position Overview:
Arena BioWorks, Cell and Gene Therapy Platform Research Organization (PRO) is seeking a highly skilled experimental scientist/associate to join our gene editing platform team. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in technology development, evaluation and optimization across multiple gene editing modalities in an industrial setting. Experience in translationally relevant settings (primary cells and in vivo applicable delivery modalities) and with pre-clinical development will be required.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and execute experiments to evaluate and optimize gene editing modalities in vitro and in vivo
- Design and execute gene editing experiments leveraging multiple modalities including type II and type V nucleases, base editors, prime editors, and both short and large insertion approaches.
- Develop and implement gRNA screening protocols using various delivery platforms such as nucleofection/electroporation of plasmid, RNA, and RNP delivery
- Perform experiments with primary cells, including HSCs, primary human hepatocytes, and T cells.
- Develop and optimize methods for measuring editing, such as targeted NGS, ddPCR
- Experience with clonal isolation workflows for difficult cell lines and primary cells will be a plus
- Collaborate cross functionally with disease mechanisms/modeling and computational biology platforms to integrate experimental data and improve gene editing platforms.
- Prepare technical reports, presentations, and manuscripts for internal and external dissemination.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, Biochemistry, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
- 3-5 years experience with gene editing technologies in an industry setting
- Knowledge of design and implementation of editor optimization campaigns across multiple gene editing modalities
- Hands-on experience with primary cell culture, including human hepatocytes, HSCs, and T cells.
- Experience with development of high throughput screening approaches and pooled screens (lentivirus and other) will be a big plus
- Experience with preclinical development in programs/projects that are approaching clinical validation will be highly valued
Why Join Arena BioWorks:
This role offers a unique opportunity to be a part of the development of gene editing therapeutic platforms within a dynamic and innovative research institute. Arena BioWorks operates at the forefront of biomedical innovation, with a mission to translate scientific insights into life-changing therapies. If you are passionate about advancing gene editing and other technologies and driving therapeutic innovation, we invite you to apply and make a meaningful impact on human health.