Senior Scientist, Analytical Genomics

JOB PURPOSE

Sana Biotechnology is developing the next generation of gene and cell therapies, and we are looking for a highly motivated Senior Scientist to join our Analytical Genomics group, to contribute to Sana's pipeline. The successful candidate will develop robust and reproducible NGS-based assays for cell and gene therapy programs across the company, and will interface with teams in R&D, Technology Sciences, CMC and manufacturing. The ideal candidate should have an extensive technical background in genomics, especially NGS library prep, nucleic acids extraction, general molecular biology techniques and direct experience operating sequencers. A deep understanding of bulk transcriptomics and single cell sequencing technologies is highly desirable. This bench scientist should be passionate about developing cutting edge genomics techniques, adapting existing NGS assays, partnering effectively with the Computational Biology team to analyze NGS data, and helping cross-functional teams interpret results. The ability to work in a highly collaborative environment and an agile team first mind-set will be critical to success.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design, implement and optimize NGS-based assays, develop well defined QC metrics and success criteria for each assay, and drive cross-functional projects to successful completion, under manager supervision.
• Demonstrate PoC of method/assay through literature and/or benchmark data with appropriate experimental controls and test samples
• Work independently to execute on NGS protocols, standard molecular biology and biochemistry techniques, and tissue culture work (as necessary). This includes optimization and modification of existing kits and protocols, and troubleshooting issues that arise with assay development
• Help in the operation and maintenance of the Analytical Genomics lab and equipment, in particular NGS sequencers.
• Write up experimental results in an electronic lab notebook, document protocols in a traceable and detail-oriented manner, and ensure data and reports are properly stored in LIMS
• Collaborate with the Computational Biology teams to analyze data and automate bioinformatics analysis workflows
• Present results regularly at group meetings, and communicate effectively with a broad audience with a range of technical, analytical, and biological expertise

QUALIFICATIONS

Basic Qualifications

• PhD in cell or molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, or related field, w. 5+ yrs experience in academic research and/or industry. BS or MS plus 8+ yrs or equivalent combination of education and work experience. Deep subject matter expertise and an emerging leader.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on laboratory experience with generating NGS libraries, sample extraction, nucleic acids quantification (e.g. Bioanalyzer, qPCR), and running NGS sequencers,
• In-depth experience of diverse NGS library preparation techniques e.g. bulk RNA-seq, multiplex PCR, and/or hybrid capture, and troubleshooting during assay development in an industry or academic setting
• Experience with cell and tissue culture, cell enrichment (e.g. FACS) and general molecular biology techniques (e.g. qRT-PCR, Western blot)
• Demonstrated success in working in cross functional teams, especially with bioinformaticians and biologists
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences and attention to detail
• Ability to handle several fast-paced projects concurrently

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with single cell sample preparation and library preparation protocols (e.g. 10x, SMART-Seq, Drop-Seq, CITE-seq) is a strong plus
• Experience with NGS assays involved in cell and gene therapy research is a plus
• Background in immunology and/or cell biology, as well as experience working with RNA or virus
• Experience with automation of cell and molecular biology assays, especially sample extraction and NGS library preparation