Job Description
- Ideally C2H: starting as six-month contract
PRIMARY ROLE: A small life science company in Chicago focused on cell therapy, is seeking a talented and motivated researcher with experience in molecular and cellular biology to foster the development of innovative therapies for various therapeutic indications. This position requires a hands-on individual with expertise in molecular and cellular biology technologies and strategies. The ideal candidate will have years of experience in cell culture and cell differentiation, including understanding multiple cell types such as human pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs and/or hESCs). Additional expertise in molecular biology, cell therapy, gene therapy/gene editing, vision science, or functional genomics is preferred. Knowledge of analytical assay development, as well as high-throughput screening, is a plus. The R&D team will collaborate closely with PD, AD, and QA colleagues and lead external collaborations with contract development (CRO).
As a member of the research and development team, you will work under the direction of the Senior Director, Molecular and Cellular Biology to optimize and develop pipelines, starting with our chemically induced cellular reprogramming program. This is an exciting interdisciplinary role in a dynamic, rapidly advancing company that will contribute directly to the progression of new therapies as well as the identification of new technologies and disease-modifying therapeutics.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: - Take the lead on assigned R&D initiatives.
- Design, conduct, and optimize molecular and cellular biology experiments to support research and development objectives.
- Conduct experiments in molecular and cellular biology, including but not limited to:
- DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR and molecular cloning
- Protein expression and analysis (e.g. western blotting, ELISA, flow cytometry)
- Cell culture, transfection, and functional assays
- Contribute to the development of complex assays to support drug discovery programs
- Actively contribute to or take a leadership role in cross-functional teams and projects
- Provide training, guidance, and mentorship to junior team members.
- Prepare, review, and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs), experimental plans, and technical reports
- Support research development by ensuring adequate inventory levels of materials and supplies are maintained
- Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records, including experimental data and observations.
- Operate, maintain, calibrate, and validate essential lab equipment such as biological safety cabinets, incubators, pipet aids, balances, and centrifugation.
- Collaborate with internal and external multidisciplinary teams to achieve pipeline development.
- Ensure compliance with laboratory safety protocols and regulatory guidelines.
- Ability to work a standard schedule and limited weekend work as necessary to complete experiments.
- May perform additional duties as required.
QUALIFICATIONS :
- Degree in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, or related discipline. PhD and 0~2 years of relevant experience, master’s degree and 3+ years of relevant experience, or bachelor’s degree and 5+ years of relevant research experience. Industrial experience is a plus
- Extensive hands-on experience in cellular reprogramming.
- Proficiency in cell culture techniques, preferred in primary cells, stem cells, and differentiated cell types.
- Expertise in molecular or cellular biology techniques, such as qPCR, flow cytometry, and HCI.
- Strong knowledge of cell signaling pathways and mechanisms involved in cell fate decisions and reprogramming.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to interpret and present complex datasets.
- Organized, detail-oriented, and excellent record-keeping skills.
- Knowledge of experimental design and statistical analysis tools (e.g., GraphPad Prism, JMP)
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Prove ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize assignments.
- Ability to work independently with direction and perform well in a team environment
Job Tags
Contract work, Weekend work,