Job Description

Job Summary:  

The Associate Scientist will design and conduct molecular and cell biology experiments relevant to retinal diseases and viral (AAV-based) retinal gene therapies. Additionally, the Associate Scientist will manage laboratory operations, including procurement and sourcing of service providers, managing R&D budget and spending, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and safety.

Duties/Responsibilities:  

· Maintain mammalian cell cultures that support in vitro disease modeling platforms, including iPSC human and animal cell lines.

· Conduct molecular and cell biology experiments to assess feasibility of retinal AAV gene therapies and small molecules, including digital PCR, protein quantitative assays, and novel and/or established in vitro functional assays.

· Accurately record, document, interpret experimental data, and present study results to multidisciplinary teams.

· Prepare and review protocols, laboratory documentation, inventory, technical reports, and standard operation procedures (SOPs).

· Independently work in a fast-paced and collaborative environment rich with opportunities for growth and training to expand skill sets.

Required Skills/Abilities: 

Candidates should possess:

· Hands-on experience with cell culture (mammalian and iPSC cell lines) to design, create and maintain target-appropriate cell models for use in potency assays for multiple gene therapy programs. Experience with retinal cell models is preferred.

· Proficiency in cell and molecular biology techniques such as cloning, qPCR, digital PCR, Western blotting, and ELISA.

· Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and eagerness to learn new techniques.

· Advanced computer skills with software like Word, Excel, GraphPad, PowerPoint, Photoshop, and SnapGene.

· Ability to design, execute, and analyze cell-based experiments and present results.

Supervisory Responsibilities:  

This role has no supervisory responsibilities and reports to the Principal Scientist and Chief Scientific and Development Officer (CSDO).

Education and Experience:

· A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Neuroscience, Ophthalmology, Pharmacology, Biology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.

· At least 4 years of hands-on experience with cell and molecular biology techniques such as cloning, ELISA, qPCR, digital PCR, and Western blotting.

· Preferred experience with viral vectors (AAV or Lenti-vectors) and iPSC line culture, maintenance, clone selection, and banking.

Physical Requirements:

The candidate must be able to perform lab work, operate equipment, and occasionally perform tasks requiring manual dexterity and mobility in the lab.

Location:

On-site at Opus Genetics laboratory in Durham, NC.

  The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.   Opus Genetics is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law.   

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