Perceive Biotherapeutics (www.perceivebio.com) is an exciting clinical-stage company, with a team focused on improving human health by developing breakthrough neuroprotective therapeutics. We are using novel approaches to treat highly prevalent, blinding diseases that currently have no good therapeutic alternatives. Our unique approach is leading to first-in-class and best-in-class protein therapeutics and gene therapy solutions that will significantly impact patients’ lives.

Position Summary

We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced individual to join our growing laboratory team as a Scientist/ Senior Scientist in our Gene Therapy Team. This individual will be responsible for assisting in activities related to AAV product development including capsid and protein optimization, plasmid cloning and design, vector production, and analytical evaluation. The selected candidate will be contributing to pipeline progress in developing new gene therapy products through execution of experimental plans and applying product development knowledge.

The successful candidate will be collaborative, highly motivated, and possess the ability to contribute to a fast-paced, passionate team.

Role And Responsibilities

• Work closely with gene therapy leadership to assist in the planning and development of gene therapy constructs including capsid modifications, transgene optimization, and regulatory region improvements with a view towards translation to clinical development
• Collaborate to identify and develop assays related to detection and efficacy of therapeutic proteins (ELISA, qPCR, cell-based assays, etc)
• Apply current literature approaches and novel techniques to design and testing of gene therapy products
• Perform data analysis from key studies to drive decisions on product selection
• Oversee in vitro and in vivo screening of gene therapy development candidates in multiple animal models
• Assist in production of AAV vectors and analytical testing including ddPCR, DLS, and ELISAs.
• Clone and propagate plasmid DNA, perform molecular tests including restriction digest analysis and sequencing.
• Maintain accurate and detailed experimental notes in an electronic laboratory notebook.

Location

• This is a laboratory-based role in San Diego, CA

Key Qualifications & Competencies

• MS and/or PhD with 6+ years (MS) or 3+ years (PhD) experience in laboratory setting performing molecular and / or cell-based experiments. Gene therapy experience required.
• Accomplished in protein expression and optimization (plasmid cloning, regulatory region modification, codon optimization, etc), with understanding of key product development attributes required for successful manufacturing.
• Experience with plasmid cloning, propagation, and/or various nucleic acid/protein analytical techniques including, but not limited to qPCR/ddPCR, western blotting, or ELISA.
• Overseen or collaborated on in vitro and in vivo assay design to test gene therapy products
• Preferred experience includes experience preparing CMC documents for IND or other regulatory submission(s).
• Prior experience making AAV vectors at a research scale strongly preferred.
• Hands-on involvement with aseptic technique and adherent or suspension cell culture (mammalian preferred).
• Previous work documenting laboratory results in written or electronic laboratory notebooks and writing formal study reports.
• Proven problem-solving skills with ability to adapt to shifting priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including strong command of written English for scientific writing.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work and communicate effectively within the organization.

• High personal integrity and strong work ethic.

• Ability to operate with substantial latitude in a fast-paced environment.

Perceive Biotherapeutics provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to religion, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, national origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, disability, veteran or military status, predisposing genetic characteristics or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

The targeted pay range for this position is between $120,000-$160,000 per year, commensurate with level and experience.

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