Senior Research Associate, Animal Genetics

About the role

We’re seeking a Senior Research Associate who will be responsible for the culture of genetically modified primordial germ cells for the generation of chickens expressing human antibodies and other novel antigen-binding scaffolds. This position will interface between cell culture and molecular biology teams. This position represents a critical role in developing our next generation of innovative in vivo platforms for the discovery of novel therapeutics. A successful candidate would have strong technical skills and hands-on experience in primary cell culture and genetic modification.

About This Role

The Animal Genetics group focuses on engineering chickens to produce human antibodies in various formats for different therapeutic applications. New genetically modified lines of chickens are validated in antibody discovery campaigns and the antibodies produced are characterized prior to the chickens being used in partner programs. The genetic modification of chickens requires culturing chicken germline cells and affecting genetic changes using modern methods of gene editing.

Responsibilities

• Propagate and genetically modify chicken primordial germ cells (PGCs), monitoring morphology and growth characteristics and correlating them with germline transmission
• Design and implement gene editing tools for precision genetic modification of PGCs
• Produce germline chimeras by microinjection of PGCs
• Establish re-derived PGC lines from transgenic animals and evaluate their germline competence
• Characterize PGC lines and transgenes by immunological methods, PCR and sequencing
• Evaluate novel antibody formats and gene editing strategies in immortalized B cells prior to PGC modification by flow cytometry, PCR, RT-PCR and sequencing
• Collaborate with team members on immunophenotyping of new bird lines and on routine genotyping tasks
• Keep accurate and complete notebook entries with effective data management and visualization
• Maintain inventories of cell culture media and reagents, prioritizing replenishment of cell stocks as needed
• Present at OmniAb internal meetings on genetic modification work

Requirements

• M.S. with 5+ years experience
• Experience with stem cell culture is required
• Experience with genetic modification of stem cells
• Experience in molecular biology
• Ability to prioritize tasks and complete projects on time
• Eagerness to learn new methods and apply knowledge to a steady stream of new projects with distinct goals

Qualifications

• Must demonstrate well-developed communication, record keeping, organizational skills, and the ability to work in a team environment

Skills

• Nice to have: Experience with antibody discovery or characterization
• Nice to have: Experience with transgenic animals

Benefits

The base compensation range for this position is $105,345 - $128,086 per YEAR. The range provided is an estimate. Actual compensation may vary based on skills, experience, education, location, and other factors permitted by law.