Scientist I, Cell Therapy Editing Strategy and Analytics

Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into value for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology, and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need.

About the role

The primary purpose of the Scientist I, Cell Therapy Editing Strategy and Analytics is to provide scientific expertise from the bench to enhance gene editing capabilities for the Cell Therapy Editing Team at AIRM. This role will work cross-functionally as part of a team planning and executing Process Development activities and develop editing strategies and processes for cell therapies across Astellas Primary Focus indications. This is a laboratory-based role in a fast-paced environment with opportunities for bringing cutting-edge technologies to ensure efficient operation and on-time delivery of edited cells to ensure program timelines.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex and novel gene-editing of pluripotent stem cells to develop strategies compatible with controlled cell therapy manufacturing applications and generate representative clones for downstream teams
• Lead efforts to evaluate and improve new cutting-edge gene editing technologies, develop genome engineering designs and molecular and cellular assays for characterization of edited cells
• Perform data collection, analysis, troubleshooting, and interpretation with a high degree of scientific rigor
• Demonstrate understanding of process development, proactively identify challenges, and propose solutions to management in a timely manner
• Work cross-functionally, including project teams, to contribute to internal milestone achievements and generation of key deliverables
• Communicate results in both oral and written formats by participating regularly in team meeting preparations and presentations, including cross-functional team meetings
• Support preparation and review of technical slide decks, reports, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), regulatory filings, and tech transfer
• Ensure smooth day-to-day operations, including on weekends
• Perform other duties as assigned or special projects as needed
• Stay up to date on literature and mentor junior members

Requirements

• BS Degree with 8+ years / MS Degree with 6+ years / Ph.D. with 0-2 years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience
• Solid technical background in aseptic mammalian cell culture, gene editing design, and process optimization using CRISPR and other cutting-edge genome editing tools
• Expertise in molecular cloning and DNA donor template design and software, analytical techniques to evaluate the editing outcome (qPCR, ddPCR, Flow cytometry, etc.)
• Strong work ethic, adaptability, and willingness to learn in a fast-paced, dynamic, and diverse work environment; work effectively both independently and in collaboration with other teams
• Strong organizational, time management, and troubleshooting skills with scientific attention to detail
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Excellent record keeping, ability to write and follow established SOPs
• Familiarity with cell and gene therapy landscape

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with tech transfer to other departments and sites
• Experience with product development
• Strong background in immunology
• Experience managing junior team members

Location and Working Environment

This position is based at AIRM in Westboro, MA and is a primarily on-site laboratory-based position.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off options, including Vacation and Sick time, plus national holidays including year-end shut down
• 401(k) match and annual company contribution
• Company paid life insurance
• Annual Corporate Bonus and Quarterly Sales Incentive for eligible positions
• Long Term Incentive Plan for eligible positions
• Company fleet vehicle for eligible positions
• Referral bonus program

Pay

Salary Range: $94,570-$135,100 (Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to skills, experience, and organizational equity considerations)