Scientist II, Genomics and Computational Biology

Company Overview

Since its inception over a decade ago, CRISPR Therapeutics has transformed from a research-stage company advancing programs in the field of gene editing, to a company with a diverse portfolio of product candidates across a broad range of disease areas including hemoglobinopathies, oncology, regenerative medicine, cardiovascular and rare diseases. The Nobel Prize-winning CRISPR science has revolutionized biomedical research and represents a powerful, clinically validated approach with the potential to create a new class of potentially transformative medicines. To accelerate and expand its efforts, CRISPR Therapeutics has established strategic partnerships with leading companies including Bayer and Vertex Pharmaceuticals. CRISPR Therapeutics AG is headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, with its wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary, CRISPR Therapeutics, Inc., and R&D operations based in Boston, Massachusetts and San Francisco, California, and business offices in London, United Kingdom.

Position Summary

We are seeking a talented and motivated scientist with deep expertise in both wet-lab molecular biology and computational biology. The scientist in this role will be responsible for the development, optimization, and execution of novel NGS-based assays and computational tools to support the characterization and release testing of CRISPR/Cas9-based components and drug products. The scientist will also work closely with cross-functional team members (research, analytical development, QC, and QA) to scientifically investigate and troubleshoot assay deviations and out-of-specification test results.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of fit-for-purpose genomics assays and computational tools to support characterization and release testing of CRISPR/Cas9-based components and drug products
• Generate and test hypotheses on genome-scale data using analytical and statistical methods
• Collaborate with internal wet-lab scientists and external laboratories to develop, optimize, and qualify NGS-based assays
• Scientifically investigate and troubleshoot assay deviations and out-of-specification test results, including anticipating potential issues and guiding the cross-functional team through complex issue resolution
• Author scientifically rigorous reports to support CTA, IND, and BLA regulatory filings

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree in molecular biology, genomics, computational biology, bioinformatics, or a related field with 2+ years of industry or post-doctoral research experience
• Demonstrated record of developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting custom NGS-based assays
• Demonstrated record of developing computational methods to analyze DNA and RNA high-throughput sequencing data and proficiency with usage of common bioinformatics tools (e.g., BWA, SAMtools, GATK, IGV)
• Deep understanding of molecular biology and NGS library preparation techniques, with demonstrated experience on Illumina and/or PacBio sequencing platforms
• Proficiency with Python is essential; familiarity with other languages such as C++, R, and MATLAB is also helpful
• Ability to work independently and successfully in a matrix environment, prioritize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously, integrate cross-functional issues, and balance competing priorities effectively

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with genomic assays used for CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing assessment (e.g., GUIDE-seq, Digenome-seq, ONE-seq, Hybrid Capture, Amplicon-seq, TIDE)
• Experience with the development and qualification of NGS-based assays, following ICH guidelines
• Familiarity with cell and gene therapy concepts and product development/manufacturing process
• Experience with the development of custom assays and/or computational tools for single-cell sequencing
• Proficiency with handling large-scale genomic data in a Linux and/or cloud environment (e.g., AWS)

Competencies

• Collaborative – Openness, One Team
• Undaunted – Fearless, Can-do attitude
• Results Orientation – Delivering progress toward our mission. Sense of urgency in solving problems.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit – Proactive. Ownership mindset.

CRISPR Therapeutics believes in fostering a dynamic workplace that balances remote work flexibility with the benefits of in-person interactions. Our employees work at least three days on-site, creating a collaborative work environment, where we cultivate mentorship opportunities, increase cross-functional communication and offer opportunities for our employees to connect.