Associate Director/Director, Genetic Engineering

Company: Seawolf Therapeutics, Inc.
Location: San Diego
Posted on: May 16, 2022

Job Description:

Seawolf Therapeutics is an early-stage venture-backed gene therapy company based in San Diego, CA. -We are an innovative and collaborative team developing next-generation non-viral genetic medicines that will be first-in-class and best-in-class therapeutics for patients living with rare diseases. -Come join our team and be an agent of change.
Position Summary:We are seeking an experienced scientist to lead the payload synthesis group, enabling platform development and discovery research efforts. -This individual will be responsible for engineering novel gene expression constructs, which can be combined with non-viral delivery technologies in gene therapy applications. -The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with molecular biology tools and techniques for synthesis, cloning, production, purification, analysis, and scale-up of various gene expression constructs. -Additionally, the ideal candidate will have a proven ability to design novel mammalian expression cassettes (including optimizing promoters, codons, regulatory elements, etc.) and to utilize innovative backbone structures. -Previous experience applying synthetic biology tools to maximize gene expression in animal models of human disease is strongly desired. -The ideal candidate will be an energetic leader capable of successfully managing a team of scientists. -This individual is expected to be a strong collaborator who enjoys scientific discovery and can communicate effectively in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary environment.
Responsibilities:

• Produce gene expression constructs as payloads for non-viral delivery vehicles
• Engineer mammalian expression cassettes to maximizein vivo gene expression
• Develop novel scaffold architectures that optimize payload functionality
• Lead a team of scientists to creatively solve problems and drive innovation
• Design, execute, analyze, and interpret experiments
• Maintain high standards for scientific integrity and accountability
• Direct the activities of external service providers to augment internal capabilities
• Communicate across departments and collaborate on project teams
  Requirements:
  • PhD in related discipline with 9+ years (Assoc Dir) or 12+ years (Dir) relevant industry experience
  • BS/MS with additional years of industry experience also acceptable
  • Prior hands-on experience with the following:
  • Standard molecular biology techniques using bacterial plasmids and restriction enzymes
  • Modern cloning procedures such as Gibson assembly and Golden Gate assembly
  • Methods for DNA purification and analysis to facilitate production and scale-up
  • Synthetic biology tools for genetic engineering
  • Design and optimization of gene expression cassettes
  • Bacterial and mammalian cell culture
  • Able to conduct self-directed research and thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced entrepreneurial setting with a diverse team of coworkers
  • Exceptional problem-solving skills, outstanding interpersonal skills, excellent written and oral communication skills, creativity, enthusiasm, reliability, and attention to detail
  • Scientifically curious, paired with a strong work ethic and grit
  • Open-minded, respectful of others, and a strong proponent of an inclusive culture
  • Embraces the lean start-up mentality and is willing to wear multiple hats
    Seawolf Therapeutics offers an attractive salary and benefits package, including equity incentives.

Keywords: Seawolf Therapeutics, Inc., San Diego , Associate Director/Director, Genetic Engineering, Executive , San Diego, California