Sr. Scientist, Viral Vector

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a vector core team to produce lenti and retroviral vectors supporting Research teams and activities in the organization.
• Lead experimental design and execution for lentiviral and viral vector–based gene delivery strategies supporting CAR-T, TCR-T, and emerging gene therapy modalities.
• Exceptional record keeping and Lab information management system policy adherence.
• Develop, optimize, and characterize viral vector production, for in vivo and ex vivo lentiviral systems.
• Apply deep understanding of viral biology, vector engineering, and gene expression control to improve efficiency, safety, and scalability.
• Serve as a technical expert for viral delivery, providing guidance to discovery, translational, and process development teams.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Research teams, core groups, analytical development, process development, and regulatory partners.
• Interpret complex datasets, troubleshoot experimental challenges, and drive data-driven decision making.
• Author technical reports, protocols, and contribute to IND-enabling documentation as needed.
• Present results at internal forums and external scientific meetings.
• Mentor direct reports and contribute to building best practices within the viral vector group.

Basic Qualifications

• Advanced scientific degree (MD, PharmD, PhD) in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Virology, Bioengineering, or a related field, with 2+ years of relevant postdoctoral or industry experience.
• OR Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Virology, Bioengineering, or a related field, with 6+ years of relevant scientific experience.
• OR Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Virology, Bioengineering, or a related field, with 8+ years of relevant scientific experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Virology, Bioengineering, or a related field, with 3+ years of relevant postdoctoral or industry experience.
• Demonstrated, hands-on expertise in lentiviral vector design, optimization, production, and transduction.
• Strong background in viral gene delivery for cell or gene therapy applications.
• Proven ability to work in a highly matrixed environment.
• Deep knowledge of mammalian cell culture, transfection/transduction methods, and molecular biology techniques (e.g., ddPCR, qPCR, flow cytometry, Western blot, ELISA).
• Proven ability to independently design and execute complex experiments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience supporting CAR-T or engineered cell therapy programs.
• Knowledge of non-lentiviral viral systems (e.g., retroviral, AAV vectors).
• Experience with scale-up, process development, or tech transfer of viral vectors.
• Experience with high throughput screening, automation, and use of liquid handlers (Biomek, TECAN etc).
• Experience with viral vector producer cell line improvement and optimization strategies.
• Track record of publications, patents, or successful program contributions.

Key Competencies

• Scientific rigor and experimental excellence.
• Cross-functional collaboration and leadership.
• Strategic thinking with attention to detail.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-moving, results-driven environment.

Pay Range

The salary range for this position is: $169,320.00 - $219,120.00. Kite considers a variety of factors when determining base compensation, including experience, qualifications, and geographic location. These considerations mean actual compensation will vary.

Benefits

This position may also be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, discretionary stock-based long-term incentives (eligibility may vary based on role), paid time off, and a benefits package. Benefits include company-sponsored medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans. For additional benefits information, visit: https://www.gilead.com/careers/compensation-benefits-and-wellbeing.