Principal Scientist, High Throughput Analytics

The Position

Verve is seeking an experienced Principal Scientist with proven track-record in analytics and cross-functional team building to lead a team to develop and implement new analytical methods and technologies to characterize mRNA, gRNA and LNP drug products. This individual will be leading a cross-discipline team to design, develop and qualify phase appropriate analytical methods to support Verve’s growing gene editing pipeline. The position will be part of an integrated R&D team that aims to advance preclinical gene editing candidates into the clinic and work closely with discovery, process development and internal quality control group. The successful candidate will report to the Head of Analytical Research and Development (ARD).

Job Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise for the structural characterization of gRNAs, mRNAs, and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) drug product.
• Work across the ARD team and cross-functionally to lead, plan, and execute complex characterization studies; serve as the analytical lead in cross-functional interactions.
• Work with key partners across Verve (discovery research, preclinical, process development) to develop high throughput analytics platform and streamlined in-process testing.
• Develop and implement methods intended for a variety of purposes, including release and stability testing, product characterization, and high throughput analysis.
• Serve as analytical lead for CMC project teams.
• Author and review technical reports and regulatory submissions.
• Managerial responsibilities for a small team including oversight of day-to-day work assignments and performance, mentor, provide feedback, and train team.
• Oversee team working on mRNA and guide RNA biochemical assays.
• Summarize and present data to audiences from junior team members to senior leadership.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biophysics, biochemistry, bioengineering, or related life sciences field with strong scientific background and 15+ years’ relevant industry experience or;
• Master’s degree in chemistry, biophysics, biochemistry, bioengineering, or related life sciences field with strong scientific background and 13+ years’ relevant industry experience or;
• Ph.D. in chemistry, biophysics, biochemistry, bioengineering, or related life sciences field with strong scientific background and 12+ years’ relevant experience
• Demonstrated competency in operating HPLC/UPLC/LC-MS/CE instrumentation.
• Must have hands-on experience analyzing DNA/RNA by IP-RP, IEX, LC-fluor and multi-modal LC techniques.
• Must have hands on experience analyzing RNA by a variety of techniques such as HPLC, CGE, UV thermal analysis, qPCR, RT-PCR etc.
• Hands-on experience in oligonucleotide lipid nanoparticle delivery, production and purification short and large oligonucleotides, protein engineering and process development are a plus.
• Hands-on experience in liquid handling automation platforms (Hamilton, TECAN, Beckman, etc) and open-access chromatography systems is a plus.
• Strong change and learning agility with a proven history of bringing new ideas and creativity, both scientifically and strategically.
• Demonstrated ability to be nimble and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic culture and environment.
• Energetic, motivational, positive and collaborative leadership skills in bringing out the best in others and leveraging capabilities to advance the organization’s mission.
• Experience in leading and developing teams.
• Contributing to and leading cross-functional teams to achieve company goals.
• Ability to work by influencing peers and their reports and gain their cooperation in dealing with multiple priorities in the delivery of projects.