The Gene Therapy Accelerator Unit (GTxAU) at Biogen is searching for a highly creative and motivated scientist to contribute directly to the generation of human gene therapy clinical candidates for the treatment of neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases. The position will be an integral part of a cross-functional team supporting synthetic biology projects aimed at developing DNA- and RNA-based genetic control circuits including cis-regulatory elements and validate their properties in mammalian systems. The candidate should have in-depth experience in molecular and synthetic biology, ability to use a broad array of in vitro, in vivo, and analytical techniques for viral and cell engineering, and execute experiments with high level of independence, organization, and scientific rigor. He/she should be able to maintain an up-to-date knowledge of pertinent literature and possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to efficiently present results to project team members. Knowledge and experience in AAV biology and vectorology are considered a plus.

Direct responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:

• Establish workflows and design, build, and execute experiments with minimal guidance
• Establish SOPs and adapt new protocols from literature
• Perform independent data analysis and interpretation and develop strategies for optimization/troubleshooting
• Support the development of new AAV-related platforms
• DNA- and RNA- based genetic circuit design
• Maintain organized and detailed electronic records
• Author internal reports and/or scientific manuscripts for publication in international, peer-reviewed journals
• Present data at internal meetings/international conferences
• Ability to productively collaborate in cross-functional teams to advance project goals

• Degree in Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, Bioengineering, or related field
• Strong Background in Molecular and Synthetic Biology including, but not limited to DNA- and RNA- cloning, purification, and characterization including ddPCR, qPCR, and qRT-PCR, high-throughput DNA assembly and mutagenesis strategies, flow cytometry, and other advanced molecular biology techniques
• Experience in Omics and quantitative data analysis
• Knowledge and previous experience with mammalian cell culture/viral vector biotechnology-related development (aseptic operations, cell biology, biochemistry, analytical techniques, bioreactor operations), protein purification, and AAV are highly desirable
• Experience with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) a plus
• Working knowledge of computational biology and protein engineering preferred
• Excellent communication and organizational skills with the ability to plan and manage a project to ensure timely completion

Education

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, Bioengineering, or related field with 0-2+ years
• MS with 7+ years of industry experience
• BS with 10+ years of industry experience

The Gene Therapy Accelerator Unit (GTxAU) at Biogen is searching for a highly creative and motivated scientist to contribute directly to the generation of human gene therapy clinical candidates for the treatment of neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases. The position will be an integral part of a cross-functional team supporting synthetic biology projects.