Scientist, Analytical Genomics
About the role
Sana Biotechnology is growing, and we are hiring new team members who believe in the potential of engineered cells as medicines, who are passionate about delivering the possible to patients, and who lead with the desire to work on novel ideas. As a lab-based Scientist, Analytical Genomics, you will help advance Sana’s Type 1 Diabetes and in vivo CAR-T programs by turning molecular and genomics assays into meaningful, decision-ready data. You will develop and execute assays that characterize engineered cell products, support method qualification and regulatory-aligned documentation, and keep the Genomics Lab ready to deliver high-quality results. You will also work closely with Computational Biology, Computational Engineering, and cross-functional partners to analyze and interpret genomic data that help move innovative therapies forward.
Responsibilities
- Develop, optimize, and qualify molecular and genomics assays to characterize engineered cell and gene therapy products.
- Apply genomic technologies and molecular workflows, including on- and off-target editing assessment, genome integrity and stability assessment, single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, ddPCR, RT-ddPCR, and qPCR.
- Develop reference materials and define assay controls, QC metrics, acceptance criteria, and performance measures.
- Execute core laboratory workflows, including sample processing, nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, sequencing, and assay troubleshooting.
- Generate, review, analyze, interpret and communicate genomic data with Computational Biology, Computational Engineering, and cross-functional partners to support Research, CMC, Clinical, and IND-enabling program decisions.
- Support molecular and genomic method qualification, SOP development, and regulatory-aligned documentation for GxP activities and regulatory submissions.
- Maintain accurate, traceable, and audit-ready records of sample tracking, metadata, experimental procedures, assay results, and study reports in Benchling and Veeva.
- Maintain Genomics Lab readiness by supporting inventory control, equipment maintenance, reagent tracking, sample and material shipments, and CRO coordination.
Requirements
- PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, genomics, or related field with 2+ years of relevant industry experience, or MS with 7+ years of relevant industry experience.
- 4+ years of hands-on molecular biology experience, including nucleic acid extraction, quantification/QC, NGS library preparation, Illumina sequencing, ddPCR/RT-ddPCR, and qPCR.
- Experience developing, optimizing, troubleshooting, and qualifying molecular or genomics assays for engineered cell and gene therapy products.
- Experience with assay qualification, SOPs, regulatory-aligned documentation, and electronic systems such as Benchling or Veeva.
- Ability to analyze, interpret, document, and communicate genomic assay results with Computational, Research, CMC, Clinical, and program teams.
Skills
- Hands-on experience with on- and off-target editing assays, genomic integrity, and biodistribution that support cell and gene therapy programs.
- Experience applying single-cell, spatial transcriptomics, multiomics or other advanced genomics workflows to answer complex biological or product-characterization questions.
- Experience implementing automated sample preparation and assay execution platforms such as Hamilton, KingFisher, or similar systems.
- Strong understanding of regulatory expectations for genomics assays, including analytical method qualification, GxP documentation, lab compliance, and IND-enabling support.
- Ability to translate complex genomic assay data into clear, decision-ready summaries for Research, CMC, Clinical, and regulatory stakeholders.
Work Environment
- This role may require occasional evening or weekend work to support critical project deliverables.
- The role includes standard laboratory activities such as standing, walking, sitting, using hands and arms, lifting or carrying up to 10 lbs, and occasional reaching, pushing, pulling, crouching, kneeling, twisting, or squatting.
Pay
The base pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $130,000 and $160,000/year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Benefits
- For benefit eligible employees, we cover a generous portion of the cost for employee health coverage, making high-quality care more accessible and affordable.
- Ample time-off (various paid time off benefits, such as holidays, vacation, sick time, and parental leave).
- Short- and long-term disability, employer paid basic life insurance, additional voluntary life insurance protection.
- Financial wellness programs including financial planning resources.
- 401(k) Plan with an immediately vested employer match.
- Tuition Reimbursement and Student Loan Repayment.
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
- Commuter subsidy and a variety of wellness offerings to support each person individually.