Job Description:
Our Gene Therapy Scientist will play a key role in supporting and coordinating the day-to-day non-clinical research activities across our programs. Reporting to the Head of Early-Preclinical Research, this role will involve contributing to the development of preclinical studies aimed at validating novel biological assets, such as viral and non-viral vectors, cell type-specific expression cassettes, new chimeric antigen receptors, and in-silico models. These contributions will support the advancement of WhiteLab's portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Non-Clinical Study Design & Execution

  • Proactively contribute to the design, planning, and execution of studies to characterize and validate molecular libraries and engineered vectors, focusing on critical parameters such as transduction efficiency, biodistribution, and expression specificity.
  • Collaborate with teams to identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure project continuity and success.
  • Explore and propose cutting-edge experimental technologies to enhance molecular characterization and advance assets to the preclinical stage.
  • Work collaboratively with internal teams and external collaborators to ensure studies are executed in alignment with WhiteLab Genomics' project management standards and best practices.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Partner with WhiteLab's computational scientists to integrate insights from in silico drug design pipelines into experimental designs and datasets.
  • Coordinate experimental work outsourced to external partners, ensuring timely and successful execution.
  • Collaborate with internal departments to align experimental research with broader company goals and objectives.

• Data Analysis & Reporting

  • Work closely with computational scientists to analyze and interpret experimental data, generating actionable insights to drive scientific and strategic decision-making.
  • Prepare comprehensive reports, presentations, and publications to communicate findings effectively to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Ensure the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of data across all research activities.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement

  • Stay informed about industry trends and advancements in gene and cell therapy delivery, proposing the integration of the latest innovations into non-clinical research activities.

Desired Profile

We're Excited to Meet You If You…

• Bring Expertise in Gene Therapy: Hold a PhD or are an experienced engineer in fields such as Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, Biotechnology, Virology, Vectorology, or a related discipline, with at least 3 years of relevant experience in gene therapy, cell therapy, or related biotechnological applications.
• Have Extensive Non-Clinical Research Experience: Possess hands-on expertise in designing, conducting, and interpreting in vitro and in vivo studies within gene and cell therapy. Proficiency in vector development and delivery systems is a must.
• Excel in Managing External Collaborations: Have a proven track record of effectively managing relationships with CROs and external research partners to execute successful non-clinical studies.
• Offer Computational Biology Expertise (a Plus): While not required, experience with computational biology approaches to optimize biological assets and gene therapy delivery would be a valuable addition.

Interview Process

• First, a video interview with the Head of People and Culture.
• Followed by a second video interview with the Head of Early Pre-Clinical Research.
• Subsequently, an on-site, face-to-face interview to meet the rest of the team and complete a PI test.