New 
Scientist
 Spectraforce Technologies | |
 United States, California, South San Francisco | |
 Apr 04, 2025 | |
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Job Title: Scientist
Location: South San Francisco, CA Duration: 12 months Description: Key Responsibilities: * Design and perform plate-based and cell-based assays (multi-color flow cytometry, Western blot, ELISA, etc.) to assess mRNA delivery and protein expression in mammalian cells using LNP systems. * Design and perform high-throughput expression and functional screen/characterization assays for novel protein/mRNA candidates, using semi-automated instruments. * Maintain meticulous records in an electronic lab notebook (ELN), draft standard operating procedures (SOPs), and present results at team meetings. * Independently plan, execute, and interpret experiments, delivering data-driven insights aligned with project timelines and goals. * Conduct molecular biology tasks, including cloning (e.g., PCR, golden gate, Gibson reactions, etc.), and optimize mRNA IVT protocols for yield and quality. * Design, produce, and optimize lentiviral vectors, perform transduction experiments, and analyze results to advance research objectives. * Stay current with advancements in genetic medicine, LNP technology, and molecular biology techniques to inform experimental design. * Collaborate with antibody discovery/production teams to support pipeline projects and facilitate technology hand-offs. Qualifications: Master's degree in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences, or a related field with 1-3 years of industry experience, OR Bachelor's degree in a related field with 3+ years of industry experience. Expertise in mammalian cell culture (suspension and adherent cell lines, primary T cells) and multi-color flow cytometry (panel design, acquisition, and analysis using FlowJo) is required; Hands-on experience with immunological assays (e.g., ELISA, Luminex, cytotoxicity) is highly desirable. Experience with semi-automated liquid handling systems (e.g., Integra VIAFLO) for high-throughput workflows is highly preferred. Familiarity with data analysis tools (e.g., GraphPad Prism, FlowJo) is required; working knowledge with statistical and bioinformatics tools (python, R, etc.) is a plus. Basic understanding of immunology, cancer biology, or cell therapy applications is preferred; Prior experience in genetic medicine, CAR-T cell therapy, or RNA therapeutics is a strong plus. Basic knowledge of nucleic acid characterization (e.g., gel electrophoresis, qPCR), familiarity with molecular biology techniques, including cloning (e.g., Gibson assembly, PCR) and mRNA IVT (e.g., capping, purification), is a strong plus. Strong organizational and time-management skills with a proven ability to juggle multiple projects. Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot assays and optimize protocols independently. Excellent verbal and written communication skills for presenting data and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Willingness to take responsibilities outside of original job description. | |