Scientist – Gene Therapy Vectors Innovation

Location: South San Francisco, CA

Status: Regular Full-Time

Reports To: Senior Scientist, Gene Therapy

About SonoThera:

SonoThera is a venture capital-backed early-stage biopharmaceutical company developing ultra-sound-guided non-viral targeted gene therapies to treat multiple diseases of high unmet need. The Gene Therapy group at SonoThera uses a collaborative, interdisciplinary, and forward-thinking approach to solving many of the current challenges facing genetic medicine discovery and drug development. SonoThera is headquartered in South San Francisco, CA.

Job Description:

The Gene Therapy group at SonoThera is seeking to hire a Research Scientist to become an integral part of the gene therapy drug development effort. We are looking for candidates who demonstrate critical thinking and possess a strong aptitude for innovation in the gene therapy vector development field. This position requires adaptability and the ability to excel in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will have extensive technical experience in developing nucleic acid gene therapy vectors, as well as expertise in gene editing and high throughput screening.  

Qualifications:

• A PhD or Master's degree in the biological sciences (e.g., Genetics, Biochemistry, Molecular and Cellular Biology, or a related field), with 1-3 years of relevant postgraduate research experience for PhD holders or 5-8 years for Master's degree holders, preferably in an industry setting. 

• Demonstrated creativity and the ability to work effectively within an interdisciplinary team to achieve technical and corporate milestones. 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, along with strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. 

Technical Requirements and Skills:

• Demonstrated success in developing potent and safe gene therapy payloads for both viral and non-viral delivery, evidenced by first authorship in peer-reviewed publications, patents, and presentations at major international gene therapy conferences. 

• Extensive experience in literature mining and designing DNA- and RNA-based gene therapy payloads. 

• Expertise in state-of-the-art gene editing technologies and high throughput screening methodologies. 

• Proficiency in using Geneious, Benchling, and SmartSheet platforms. 

• Ideal candidate will have familiarity with developing in vitro disease models, as well as utilizing DNA, RNA, and protein analytical assays, including ddPCR, Olink-based proteomics, MSD, and Western blotting. 

• Strong record-keeping and organizational skills. 

Compensation: The salary range for this position is $125,000.00 to $150,000.00 USD annually. This salary range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on various factors, including, without limitation, individual education, experience, tenure, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data, including potential adjustments for geographic location.

At SonoThera, we'll give you the tools to feel healthy, happy and secure.

💰 Equity and ownership in a fast-growing company.

🏋🏻 Access to a 24-hour gym

💝 Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision

🚗 Commuting stipend based on your geographical location

🏦 401(k) Match: SonoThera offers a dollar-for-dollar match

🏝 All full-time employees are eligible for our flexible time off policy

Equal Opportunity for Diversity & Inclusion

SonoThera provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.