Research Scientist - Gene therapy

PRIMARY FUNCTION:

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide and in the United States. There is a high unmet need for new treatment options to treat NSCLC due to the high rate of chemoresistance in NSCLC. Gene Editing Institute at Christiana Care Health System has identified a specific target to reduce the chemoresistance and is currently developing CRISPR gene therapy strategy to treat NSCLC. This platform protocol is also applicable to other cancers.

The Research Scientist will participate in all aspects of preclinical development work in new, targeted delivery system utilizing CRISPR gene therapy to treat NSCLC. The successful candidate will work on the design and evaluation of gene and cell delivery systems including adeno-associated virus, lentiviral vector, and lipid nano particles in experimental lung cancer models. The Research Scientist is also involved in the development of proof-of-concept and preclinical studies for other solid cancers, included but not limited to, lung cancer, brain cancer and melanoma, etc. The ideal candidate will have advanced expertise in adeno-associated virus biology and at least one area in lipid nano particle delivery, animal models in Non-small cell lung cancers, or CRISPR.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Lead laboratory research related to AAV vector design, development, and characterizations for gene therapy products

Support pre-clinical AAV studies related to non-small cell lung cancer

Work with Contract Research Organizations to conduct tropism, efficiency analysis, biodistribution and toxicology studies for timely execution of projects.

Present research findings, including preparation of research reports and abstracts, dissemination at national and international scientific conferences and publication of manuscripts by peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Maintain familiarity with current scientific literature and techniques in the field of AAV based gene therapy

Perform assigned work safely, adhering to established departmental safety rules and practices; report to Group leader, in a timely manner, any unsafe activities, conditions, hazards, or safety violations that may cause injury to oneself, other employees, patients and visitors.

SCOPE, PURPOSE, AND FREQUENCY OF CONTACTS:

Manage and coordinate activities with external collaborators and contract research organizations to conduct preclinical studies.

DIRECTION/SUPERVISION OF OTHERS:

Supervise research technicians and oversee daily laboratory operations.

DIRECTION/SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Group leader / Director of Gene Editing Institute

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

PhD in cancer biology, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, gene therapy, or a closely related field. Minimum of 4 years of industry experience or 5 years of postdoctoral experience in the relevant field. Candidates should also have authored at least one first author publication (either published or in the process of submission) in reputable journals; cancer research experience preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL, AND ABILITY REQUIREMENTS:

Must be proficient in delivery system for gene and cell therapy including AAV biology and its clinical application, cell-based models and in utilization of murine models, and performing cell biology, biochemistry, and molecular biology techniques

Scientific training and hands-on experience either with lipid nano particles or with AAV, such as vector design, potency assay, and characterizations

Experience in pIND/IND research in biotech setting is preferred

Strong leadership and communication skills

Evidence of scientific accomplishments in the form of publications and presentations as first author

Evidence of contribution to the field of gene therapy

Ability to work independently to develop model concepts and approaches for translational cancer research.

Extensive experience in research methodology, principles and procedures

Ability to gather and analyze statistical data and generate reports.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Frequent sitting, standing and walking with or without reasonable accommodation for physical disabilities

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Office, clinical and laboratory settings