(Senior) Scientist - Functional Genomics

Job Description

We are actively seeking a highly skilled and experienced (Senior) Scientist with a background in functional genomics research. The ideal candidate should possess expertise in employing diverse cellular and molecular biology techniques for functional screen assay development. It is desirable that they have proven ability to conduct genome-wide or focused CRISPR screens. They will work collaboratively with geneticists and computational biologists to facilitate drug target discovery. As a rapidly expanding start-up, we value creative thinkers, agile learners who are enthusiastic about contributing to the company's growth and advancing our human-genetics-backed therapeutic pipeline. 

Responsibilities

• Develop and establish functional assays for genome-wide or focused CRISPR screens in Variant Bio’s disease areas of interest (immune, kidney and liver disease).
• Perform functional genomics screens (both pooled and arrayed) independently for drug target identification and characterization.
• Work together with internal computational geneticists and computational biologists for screen data analysis.
• Collaborate with biology program leads to develop functional genomics assays to support drug target validation.
• Contribute to deep dives into relevant disease areas and GWAS-identified targets to support a competitive R&D pipeline.
• Keep current on scientific literature and attend relevant scientific meetings in order to apply new technologies and scientific principles.
• Recommend and develop new or additional biology capabilities as needed.
• Effectively communicate scientific results to internal and external audiences.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in cellular biology or related fields with at least 3 years of relevant experience, ideally in industry. Title and level will be adjusted according to prior experience.
• Experience using CRISPR tools for target identification and characterization in a disease.
• Experience with functional screen assay development and both arrayed and pooled functional screens is desirable. 
• Basic understanding of next generation sequencing (NGS) and downstream CRISPR screen data analysis.
• Disease area expertise is a plus, especially in one of the company's disease areas: immune disease, kidney disease, fibrosis, and liver disease.
• A desire to be at the bench employing cutting-edge techniques, with the ability to collaborate with other program leads and work with CROs.
• Familiarity with the process by which therapeutics and/or diagnostics are discovered and developed.
• Exceptional people skills and an ability & willingness to work on a multidisciplinary R&D team.
• Independent, creative, detail-oriented, and a critical thinker.
• Compelled by the company’s mission of great science, a strong ethical stance, and benefit sharing. 

What We Offer

• Opportunity to be part of a startup entering a rapid growth phase grounded in ethics.
• Competitive salary and equity packages as well as a 401(k) plan that includes an automatic 3% employer contribution.  
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental and vision with 100% of monthly employee premiums paid for by the company.
• Flexible paid time off to help employees obtain a healthy work-life balance.
• Company paid professional development opportunities to encourage career progression.
• Orca Card provided by the company for work related transportation.
• Centrally located Eastlake, Seattle location in a new Alexandria building with modern facilities, including a gym.

Anticipated annual base salary for this position is $115,000 - $145,000 plus up to 10% bonus and an options package, for total compensation of up to $126,500 - $159,500, plus equity options.

The annual salary range above is based on the responsibilities and qualifications listed above. Individual salary will depend on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Don't meet every single requirement but are excited to join the Variant Bio team? If your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may still be the right candidate for this or other roles.