FL114: Senior Scientist, Therapeutics Engineering

About the role

FL114, Inc. is seeking a Senior Scientist to join our integrated Platform as a key contributor in our Therapeutics Engineering efforts. The successful candidate will be an essential member of a close-knit team of experimental and computational scientists driving FL114’s product generation engine and supporting a broad set of therapeutic programs. We are looking for enthusiastic, detail-oriented, adaptive, and highly motivated individuals with a passion for bringing novel medicines to patients. Applicants should be comfortable working on a fast-paced, cross-functional scientific team.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently conduct, optimize and proactively troubleshoot cellular screening assays in a wide range of primary and transformed cell lines.
• Expression and functional characterization of novel biologics modalities using various cell systems and techniques (cell-based assays, RNA/DNA/protein isolation and detection techniques, RT-qPCR, flow cytometry, etc.).
• Drive, pilot, and oversee development of a wide range of cutting-edge assays.
• Design, procurement, and maintenance of combinatorial libraries for relevant cell-based and cell-free assays.
• Identification and management of external partners (CROs, CMOs, etc.).

Required Skills

• Execute routine and advanced molecular biology techniques, including plasmid preparation, RT-qPCR, cloning, RNA/DNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, oligo pool work, etc.
• Culture and maintain a wide variety of mammalian cell lines, including transient and stable transfections. Develop cell lines as necessary.
• Analyze and interpret assay data, maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, and communicate results clearly in team meetings.
• Drive optimization and automation of screening protocols, including the use of liquid handling systems and plate readers.
• Experience developing DNA assets for molecular library design.
• Experience with gene delivery technologies (for example LNP, lentivirus, etc.).
• Exposure to CRISPR-based or other gene editing technologies.
• Exposure to NGS data sets and its interpretation.
• Familiarity with data analysis tools such as GraphPad Prism, Benchling, SnapGene, etc.
• Adaptive and detail-oriented with excellent time management and organizations skills.
• Exceptional teamwork and communication skills.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Cell or Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related disciplines with 2+ years of relevant experience in biotech or pharma.
• Strong background in cellular and molecular biology with hands-on experience in the development and optimization of cell-based assays and library screening assays.
• Extensive experience in gene design, vector construction, and protein expression.
• Possession of strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to clearly convey results and scientific data to senior leaders, teams and partners.
• Industry experience in drug discovery or pharmaceutical R&D preferred.