Scientist II

The successful candidate will contribute to innovative therapeutic modalities and help enable the broader research community to leverage viral vectors as powerful tools for scientific discovery and therapeutic development. Education & Experience Master’s or PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Virology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Genetics, or a related scientific discipline.

Scientist II
Location: 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080
Contract Duration: 6 Months (Potential for Extension or Full-Time Conversion)
Pay Rate: $36.97–$48.96/hour (W2)
Benefits: Weekly Pay, Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Work Model: Fully Onsite – South San Francisco, CA
Schedule: Monday–Friday
Hours: Standard 8-hour shift / 40 hours per week

Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and collaborative Scientist II to join our cutting-edge Viral Vector Core research team. This role will focus on the production, analytical characterization, and development of next-generation viral vectors supporting our gene therapy research pipeline.
The successful candidate will contribute to innovative therapeutic modalities and help enable the broader research community to leverage viral vectors as powerful tools for scientific discovery and therapeutic development. This position is ideal for a detail-oriented researcher with strong laboratory skills, excellent organizational abilities, and hands-on experience with viral vector technologies.
 
Key Responsibilities
Viral Vector Production & Analytics

• Perform end-to-end production of lentiviral libraries and Adeno-associated virus (AAV).
• Conduct downstream viral vector analytics and characterization.
• Deliver high-quality viral vector core services to support research programs.
• Follow established protocols while contributing to process improvements and technology development.

Data & Inventory Management

• Maintain accurate and organized viral vector inventories and registries.
• Utilize digital informatics platforms to ensure data integrity, traceability, and proper documentation.
• Maintain detailed and compliant laboratory records.

Next-Generation Modality Engineering

• Support the engineering and production of novel viral vectors.
• Contribute to technology development involving emerging viral-based modalities.
• Assist in developing and optimizing new approaches for viral vector production and application.

Viral Vector & CRISPR Technologies

• Participate in advanced in vitro and in vivo genome engineering activities.
• Apply CRISPR/Cas9-based technologies for genome editing.
• Support research involving viral vector and genome engineering applications.

Required & Preferred Skills

• Strong hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture.
• Proficiency in general molecular biology techniques, including:
  • Transient plasmid transfection
  • PCR
  • qPCR
  • ddPCR
  • dPCR
  • Western blot
• Hands-on experience with lentiviral or AAV production and applications is highly desirable.
• Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 and genome editing technologies is highly preferred.
• Experience operating flow cytometers is a strong plus.
• Experience using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) and digital laboratory/informatics platforms.
• Strong data analysis and computational programming skills are preferred.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Highly self-motivated, detail-oriented, and capable of working effectively in a collaborative research environment.

 
Education & Experience

• Master’s or PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Virology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Genetics, or a related scientific discipline.
• 3+ years of laboratory research experience required.
• 5–10 years of overall relevant experience preferred.
• Experience in viral vector production, molecular biology, genome engineering, or related research is highly desirable.

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