Associate Scientist/Scientist, Discovery

Position Summary
We are seeking an Associate Scientist/Scientist, Discovery who will report to our Senior Director, Discovery Biology. They will be responsible for executing biochemical and cellular assays to support drug discovery efforts. The ideal candidate will be experienced with the testing of chemical compounds, data analysis and reporting results and conclusions to support lead identification and optimization. Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic, and team-oriented environment.
 Responsibilities

• Work closely with biology and chemistry teams to design and test novel peptides for non-muscle delivery and advance EDO platform.
• Establish cellular and biochemical assays to elucidate the mechanism of action of next-generation peptides in different cellular contexts.
• Design and execute biochemical and cell-based high-throughput assays and implement rigorous data analysis techniques to identify lead molecules.
• Perform molecular techniques including DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, qRT-PCR, gene expression analysis, cell line engineering and tissue culture as needed.
• Identify and characterize target-appropriate cell models for proof-of-concept analysis.
• Support assay development, quality control and data handling by CROs.
• Collaborate effectively with internal colleagues and effectively communicate data and ideas to team members.
• Deliver clear summaries of research findings to Project Review meetings.
• Maintain electronic lab notebook, SOPs, appropriate documentation for scientific data and experimental protocols. 
• Highly motivated scientist with ability to multitask and prioritize work. Demonstrate ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Directly manage and oversee projects and timelines for associate scientists.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in one of the following: molecular biology, cell biology, neuroscience, biochemistry with minimum 2 years of postdoctoral experience in academia or industry settings with some industry experience
• Demonstrated experience with in vitro cell-based assay development and execution
• Hands-on experience in tissue culture, plate-based assays, RNA isolation, gene expression analysis (qPCR), western blot, ELISA, multiplex protein analysis, flow cytometry preferred
• Experience in neuromuscular and/or CNS drug discovery preferred
• Experience with hands on and/or managing in vivo work at CROs is a plus
• Experience with managing CROs and academic collaborations preferred
• Self-motivation, ability to work independently, excellent organization skills, multitasking and working within timelines is required
• Ability to learn rapidly, adapt and exercise flexibility for changing platform needs, workflows and projects is required.
• Good verbal, written and presentation communication skills, as well as excellent interdisciplinary and interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment.
• Familiar with Microsoft Office programs and data analysis software such as GraphPad Prism

Skills: Project Planning • Project Management • Protein Assays • siRNA • Oligonucleotides • Biomarkers • Assay Development • PCR • Molecular Biology • RNA • Immunoprecipitation • ELISA • miRNA • SIMOA • MSD ELISA

About PepGen
PepGen Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company advancing the next-generation of oligonucleotide therapies with the goal of transforming the treatment of severe neuromuscular and neurological diseases. PepGen’s Enhanced Delivery Oligonucleotide, or EDO, platform is founded on over a decade of research and development and leverages cell-penetrating peptides to improve the uptake and activity of conjugated oligonucleotide therapeutics. Using these EDO peptides, we are generating a pipeline of oligonucleotide therapeutic candidates that target the root cause of serious diseases. For more information, visit www.pepgen.com or follow PepGen on Twitter and LinkedIn. 
 
EEO Statement
PepGen is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a culturally diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race; color; creed; religion; national origin; age; ancestry; nationality; marital, domestic partnership or civil union status; sex, gender, gender identity or expression; affectional or sexual orientation; disability; veteran or military status or liability for military status.
 
Note: This is not a remote role. We like to work together and operate in a hybrid model in office Tues, Weds & Thurs each week. 
 
Recruitment & Staffing Agencies 
PepGen does not accept unsolicited agency resumes. Currently, we are working exclusively with The Bowdoin Group for all our recruiting needs. Thank you.