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Associate Director of Early Research

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94080

Posted: 01/25/2024 Employment Type: Direct Hire/Perm Job Category: Scientific Job Number: 597972 Is job remote?: No Country: United States

Job Description

Associate Director of Early Research

We are using the emerging tools of genetic medicine to engineer cures for human diseases. We believe these powerful new approaches can be used to treat, or cure, common diseases that afflict large numbers of patients. To realize this vision, we are building therapeutics that modify and control multiple genes at the DNA, RNA, and protein level in vivo. We have a vibrant, collaborative workplace that supports our team in performing great science while bringing their whole selves to work. We are seeking several highly motivated, creative individuals to join our growing team.

About the Role:
As an Associate Director of Early Research, you will advance our genetic medicine technologies, enabling the discovery and development of new therapeutics. Working with a diverse team of cell biologists, protein and RNA engineers, computational scientists, molecular biologists, and translational biologists, you will:
  • Build improved CRISPR-Cas-related and novel systems that enable therapeutic genome and transcriptome engineering
  • Identify specific genomic targets and develop candidate strategies for therapeutic intervention using our technology portfolio       
  • Comprehensively characterize the genotypic changes induced by candidate therapies, including efficacy, specificity, oncogenic potential, etc.
  • Assess the functional impact of therapeutic candidates using appropriate in vitro and in vivo model systems
  • Develop in vivo delivery approaches for candidate therapies using AAV, LNP, or other platforms
  • Support IND-enabling studies including toxicology, CMC, immunology, and related
  • Maintain comprehensive, accurate records to support scientific best practices, diligence, IND submissions, etc.  
  • Mentor and manage junior scientists/associates by leading discussions of new ideas and/or approaches, challenging ideas and interpretations, and cultivating teams to help solve challenging experimental questions

Requirements:
  • A PhD in a biological discipline, with a minimum of eight years of experience focused on bioengineering to change the behavior of cells through control of the genome or transcriptome
  • Demonstrated leadership experience, including managing both dynamic project teams and direct reports
  • Excellent communication skills and experience working with company leadership to influence strategy and longer-term planning 
  • A creative thinker with a track record of high-quality data generation
  • An experimentalist ready and able to drive to the full cycle of design/build/test/analyze
  • Strong understanding of cell engineering and tissue culture best practices

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated track record of characterizing, developing, and optimizing genome or transcriptome modification systems
  • Experience using CRISPR-Cas or similar gene editing tools for therapeutic applications
  • Experience with therapeutic target selection and optimization 
  • Experience engineering protein-DNA and/or protein-RNA interactions
  • Demonstrated ability to work in multi-disciplinary teams to achieve experimental objectives

The staffing industry has seen an increase in people falsely representing themselves as recruiters to gather personal information from job seekers. For your safety, do not provide sensitive data to anyone you have not spoken with thoroughly and never provide banking information during the application process. Candidate safety is a top priority at Planet Pharma.

Planet Pharma and The Planet Group of Companies are equal opportunity employers. It is our practice not to discriminate against any employee or applicant based on any criteria, condition or basis protected by laws or regulations in the locations where we do business. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. We celebrate diversity and are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect. We believe that diversity, equity and inclusion enable us to better meet our mission and values while serving our clients across the globe. If you have a disability or handicap and would like us to accommodate you in any reasonable way, please inform your recruiter, or contact us, so that we can discuss the appropriate alternatives available.

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About SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, CA

Ready to take the next step in your career journey? Explore our job opportunities in the vibrant area surrounding South San Francisco, California! Known for its proximity to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and the bustling tech hub of Silicon Valley, this region offers unrivaled growth potential and a dynamic work environment. With a unique blend of culture, including the renowned SFMOMA art museum, the lively Castro District, and delectable cuisine like the famous sourdough bread at Boudin Bakery, South San Francisco is the perfect place to thrive professionally while enjoying the beauty of nearby parks like Golden Gate Park and the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Join us in discovering the endless possibilities for your career in this enchanting region!

Although this hasn't been an issue at Planet Pharma, the staffing industry has seen an increase in people falsely representing themselves as recruiters to gather personal information from job seekers. For your safety, do not provide sensitive data to anyone you have not spoken with thoroughly and never provide banking information during the application process. Candidate safety is a top priority at Planet Pharma.