About the Role
Seeking a highly motivated Viral Vector Research Associate/Scientist with 5–10 years of laboratory research experience to support Viral Vector Core and gene therapy research programs. This role involves the production and characterization of lentiviral and AAV vectors, supporting next-generation viral vector engineering, maintaining viral inventories, and collaborating with cross-functional research teams to advance innovative gene therapy platforms.
Responsibilities
- Produce, purify, and characterize lentiviral libraries and Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors.
- Perform viral vector analytics using molecular biology techniques including PCR, qPCR, ddPCR/dPCR, Western blot, and related assays.
- Maintain and manage viral vector inventory, sample tracking, and documentation using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN) and digital informatics systems.
- Support the engineering, optimization, and development of next-generation viral vectors and emerging viral-based therapeutic modalities.
- Perform mammalian cell culture, transient plasmid transfection, cloning, and other molecular biology techniques.
- Participate in CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing experiments for both in vitro and in vivo applications.
- Operate laboratory instrumentation including flow cytometers and support data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
- Maintain accurate laboratory documentation, experimental records, and inventory following established laboratory procedures.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams to support gene therapy, virology, and genome engineering projects.
- Analyze experimental data, troubleshoot protocols, and contribute to continuous process improvements.
Requirements
- MS or PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Virology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Genetics, or a related scientific discipline.
- 5–10 years of laboratory research experience in molecular biology, virology, or gene therapy.
- Hands-on experience with lentiviral vector production and/or AAV production.
- Strong experience with mammalian cell culture and transient plasmid transfection.
- Experience with molecular biology techniques including PCR, qPCR, ddPCR / dPCR, Western Blot.
- Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technologies.
- Strong organizational, analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills.
- Experience with viral vector engineering and next-generation viral modalities.
- Experience operating flow cytometers.
- Familiarity with electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN) and digital sample management systems.
- Experience with data analysis, computational programming, and bioinformatics tools.
- Previous experience supporting gene therapy, viral vector core facilities, or translational research programs.
Skills
- Viral Vector Production
- Mammalian Cell Culture
- Molecular Biology
- CRISPR Genome Editing
- Lentiviral Vector Production
- AAV Vector Production
- PCR
- qPCR
- ddPCR/dPCR
- Western Blot
- CRISPR/Cas9
- Flow Cytometry
- Electronic Laboratory Notebooks (ELN)
- Data Analysis
Location
- South San Francisco, CA
Work Type
- Hybrid
- Long-Term Contract
Experience Level
- 5-10 years
Education Level
- MS or PhD
Salary/Compensations
- $65/hr on W2
Benefits
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Paid Sick Leave
- 401K
About the Company
- Our client is a world leader in biotechnology and life sciences.
