Research Scientist III – Viral Vector Engineering And Gene Delivery

About Torbett Lab and Projects

The laboratory of Dr. Bruce E. Torbett is looking for a Research Scientist III to be a workstream leader in projects related to Lentiviral Vector Engineering and Improved Gene Delivery methodologies to hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). This translational work aims to improve the delivery of therapeutic genes and gene-modifying agents for the purpose of genetic correction as well as the prevention of viral infections. The candidate will be involved in setting up and managing studies to determine restrictions of lentiviral vector (LV) entry to HSCs and how they can be overcome by using small molecule transduction enhancers (PMID 24914132, 31416800), alternate surface envelopes (PMID 30603655), or engineering improved producer cell lines. Ideal Candidate will have a Ph. D. in Cell/Molecular Biology related field with documented experience in production and use of lentiviral vectors in primary cells, preclinical testing of LV gene therapy in humanized mouse models, as well as familiarity with standard virology techniques.

The group works as a highly dynamic and interactive team and is part of the Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies (CIIT) of Seattle Children's Research Institute (SCRI). Our studies are funded through a number of grants from the NIH (including the flagship HIVE Center) as well as from the Gates Foundation. You will have the opportunity to interact and form collaborations with CIIT, SCRI and HIVE Center Investigators, as well as with collaborators throughout the Seattle area (University of Washington, Fred Hutch)

Seattle Children's Research Institute and Torbett Lab offer competitive salaries, relocation assistance (if/as applicable), in addition to eligibility to a competitive benefits package as a full time employee

About the Position

• • Expected to implement and run a workstream in an autonomous manner in close coordination with Principal Investigator (PI)
  • Development/Writing of Grants and Funding Opportunities
  • Meet with Principal Investigator on a regular basis to discuss proposed/ongoing studies, discuss implications of findings, and provide insights into new research directions
  • Within the area of expertise, actively support Principal Investigator in training and supervising of Post-Doctoral Fellows, Graduate Students, and Technicians
  • Run research projects in an independent manner
  • Write manuscripts, present data at national and international conferences
  • Assist PI in writing progress reports, grant proposals, protocols
  • Protocol development and review
  • Excellent communication and writing skills
  • Develop additional scientific skills as appropriate for the research project and carry out research/development activities of assigned research projects.
  • Ability to learn and apply new technologies and skills

• PhD (or equivalent) in Cell/Molecular Biology OR
• Master's degree in Cell/Molecular Biology or related field plus a minimum three (3) years of related experience OR
• Bachelor's Degree or higher in Cell/Molecular Biology or related field plus a minimum five (5) years of related experience with a strong publication record
• Related and prior work experience must include the following:
• Lentiviral vector production and gene delivery to primary cells
• Preclinical testing of lentiviral vector gene therapy in humanized mouse models
• Standard Virology assays (Neutralization, Titer, Packaging efficiency)
• Multicolor Flow Cytometry Analysis and Cell Sorting
• Cell culture of Primary Cells and Cell Lines (both adherent and suspension)
• RT-qPCR
• Protein and DNA/RNA isolation and analysis

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD Degree in Cell/Molecular Biology or related field
• Immunoassays, such as p24 ELISA
• Gene targeting with CRISPR/Cas9
• Ability to work in BSL-2+/BSL3 environments
• Fluorescence Microscopy

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