Company Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced candidate to join our VC-backed startup working on the development of next generation, precision mRNA-based therapeutics. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the foundational science and company culture of an exciting new company in the nucleic acid therapy space.

Job Title

Scientist, Immunology

Job Description

This candidate will join the Immunology team and report to the Head of Immunology. You will play a key role in evaluating novel mRNA-based therapeutics in immune cells. This includes developing the company’s research pipeline-screening leads in primary human immune cells, development of phenotypic and functional assays and delivery of comprehensive data packages.

Responsibilities

• Independently designing, coordinating, executing, and analyzing in vitro and ex vivo experiments

• Developing robust in vitro functional assays for the characterization of RNA based cell therapy candidates (e.g., cytotoxicity assays, cytokine release, co-culture assays, reporter assays, immunophenotyping)

• Isolating, culturing, and analyzing various primary human immune cells (e.g., T cells, B cells, Tregs, Monocytes)

• Genetically modify primary human cells by viral or non-viral techniques (e.g., electroporation, lentivirus, LNP) using DNA and RNA

• Competence in designing, optimizing, and interpreting results from multi-parameter flow cytometry, including intracellular staining and FACS sorting

• Utilize deep expertise in immunology or therapeutic area to help drive innovation, contributing to immunological application in the precision therapies space

• Present data and results at team and company-wide meetings or externally

Qualifications

• Ph.D. with experience in discovery research, with a focus on cell therapy, immunology, or related field. Level determined by experience

• Experience in designing and performing functional assays for CAR-based cell therapies a plus

• Bioinformatic experience a plus

• Strong organizational skills and maintenance of detailed records

• Excellent interpersonal communication, both written and oral

• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, small-scale company setting, with minimal supervision and adaptable to shifting priorities. Enjoy working in a collaborative environment

How to Apply

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package and an opportunity to work with a dynamic and motivated team. We are located at Bakar Labs, right off the UC Berkeley campus. This is a full-time, in person position. We invite you to apply by filling out this form. Thank you!