We are seeking a highly self-motivated and detail-oriented Senior Scientist/Manager develop mRNA & plasmid manufacturing processes as a member of the Process Development team. Reporting to the Associate Director, this position will play a crucial role in mRNA & Plasmid process optimization, including in vitro transcription, purification, characterization, and Chromatography. You will have the opportunity to become an integral part of the CMC team as you partner with technical operations for the manufacture of mRNA- based gene editing systems from nature to develop next generation therapies for patients. This role will be based in Emeryville, CA .
About the Role
- Plasmid Production, RNA synthesis by in-vitro transcription and nucleic acid purification
- Nucleic acid characterization with UV absorbance, PCR, capillary/gel electrophoresis.
- Understand and determine Critical Process Parameters(CPPs), and work with Analytical team to define Critical Quality Attributes (CQAs)
- Process Optimization to help reduce COGS, improve robustness, and quality of mRNA & plasmid
- Draft Experimental Protocols, Technical Reports, Batch Records, SOPs, Material Specs, assist in Technology Transfers and Engineering Runs
- Assist in root cause analyses for deviations and CAPAs
- General laboratory assistance including lab equipment maintenance, ordering of lab supplies, preparation of reagents and compliance with safety policies
Desired Qualifications
- B.S./M.S./Ph.D degree in Molecular Biology or a related discipline required
- Minimum 12 (B.S.), 7 (M.S.), 4 (Ph.D.) years of experience in Research or Process Development
- Experience with TFF, Akta Pure/Avant and Chromatography systems for mRNA and plasmid
- Experience with LNPs and downstream activities a plus
- Effective oral and written communication skills, particularly when collaborating with other teams with limited knowledge of your area of expertise
- Extremely organized and able to efficiently manage your time and workflow, including skillfully prioritizing both long-term projects and day-to-day responsibilities
- Able to quickly learn and adapt to new software tools (ex: Google Suite, Slack, Benchling, JMP, Prism, Geneious, Unicorn, Fragment Analyzer, etc.)
- Highly collaborative, team-oriented, and considerate of the needs of others
- Thrives in a fast-moving, results-oriented startup environment with urgent deadlines
- Independent and self-sufficient, but knows when to ask questions or seek support
- Self-driven, independently motivated, data driven and excellent problem-solving capabilities
- Self-motivated, passionate about your work, and eager to continuously learn more
The anticipated base salary range for this position will be $150,000 - $170,000 depending on the exact level of the role. As this role is open to candidates with a wide range of skills and experience, the exact salary will be dependent on the specific level of the position. We value transparency and will make every effort to provide you with a succinct explanation for how the final salary within this range is determined.
Please note, all candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.
About Metagenomi
Metagenomi is a gene editing company committed to developing potentially curative therapeutics by leveraging a proprietary toolbox of next-generation gene editing systems to accurately edit DNA where current technologies cannot. Our metagenomics-powered discovery platform and analytical expertise reveal novel cellular machinery sourced from otherwise unknown organisms. We adapt and forge these naturally evolved systems into powerful gene editing systems that are ultra-small, extremely efficient, highly specific and have a decreased risk of immune response. These systems fuel our pipeline of novel medicines and can be leveraged by partners. Our goal is to revolutionize gene editing for the benefit of patients around the world. For more information, please visit https://metagenomi.co/.
What makes Metagenomi a unique place to work?
- We are passionate about developing technologies derived from microbial-rich ecosystems that have the power to enable therapeutic development and the potential to cure devastating disease.
- We have cultivated an amazing culture that values teamwork, curiosity, scientific rigor, and fun. We have a strong commitment to work/life balance, host a weekly employee happy hour and events, provide catered lunches and endless snacks, and more!
- We offer competitive compensation including a market-benchmarked salary, annual target bonus, equity in an early-stage startup, and a comprehensive benefits plan, including 401(k) matching, a retirement safe harbor plan, and other perks.
At Metagenomi, we know that our people drive our success. We are an equal-opportunity employer and believe in and value diversity and inclusion. Metagenomi provides an open, collegial, and friendly work environment where we empower people and provide them with opportunities to develop their long-term careers. Metagenomi does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, age, physical or mental disability, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. Please note, all candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.
Notice to agencies: Our in-house Talent Acquisition Team manages all employment opportunities at Metagenomi. Agencies and independent recruiters must be approved as a vendor by Metagenomi’s Talent Acquisition team. To protect the interests of all parties, Metagenomi will not accept unsolicited resumes, profiles, or biographies. Any unsolicited resumes sent to Metagenomi will be considered referrals and the property of Metagenomi.