Promoter Engineering Co-Op

Legend Biotech is a global biotechnology company dedicated to treating, and one day curing, life-threatening diseases. Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, we are developing advanced cell therapies across a diverse array of technology platforms, including autologous and allogenic chimeric antigen receptor T-cell, T-cell receptor (TCR-T), and natural killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapy. From our three R&D sites around the world, we apply these innovative technologies to pursue the discovery of safe, efficacious and cutting-edge therapeutics for patients worldwide.

Legend Biotech entered into a global collaboration agreement with Janssen, one of the pharmaceutical companies of Johnson & Johnson, to jointly develop and commercialize ciltacabtagene autolecuel (cilta-cel). Our strategic partnership is designed to combine the strengths and expertise of both companies to advance the promise of an immunotherapy in the treatment of multiple myeloma.

Legend Biotech is seeking a Promoter Engineering Co-Op as part of the R&D team based in Philadelphia, PA.

 

Role Overview

The Promoter Engineering Co-Op will contribute to the design and functional validation of synthetic and natural promoters for T-cell gene expression, leveraging bioinformatics tools and molecular biology techniques. This role combines computational analysis with hands-on lab work to advance gene regulation strategies in cutting-edge gene therapy research.
Co-Op Duration: 6-month (Summer to Fall) with possible extension.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in designing synthetic and natural promoters for T-cell specific gene expression using bioinformatics tools and literature mining.
• Perform cloning of promoter sequences into lentiviral vectors using standard molecular biology techniques (PCR, restriction digestion, ligation, Gibson assembly).
• Maintain mammalian cell lines and primary T cells; support transfection and transduction experiments.
• Conduct reporter assays (e.g. luciferase, GFP) to evaluate promoter strength and specificity in T cells or cell lines.
• Analyze experimental data using software such as GraphPad Prism, Excel, and basic statistical methods.
• Maintain accurate lab notebooks and present findings in team meetings. 

 

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in Graduate programs (Master’s) in bioinformatics, data science, computer science, computational biology, or related field
• Basic understanding of molecular biology and cell culture principles
• Strong interest in promoter engineering and gene regulation with an understanding of transcriptional control mechanisms
• Experience with bioinformatics tools or programming languages (Python, R) is a plus
• Familiarity with laboratory techniques such as pipetting, buffer preparation, and aseptic handling.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Excellent communication and documentation skills. 

 

What we offer:

• Exposure to cutting-edge gene therapy and synthetic biology.
• Practical experience in promoter engineering and functional validation.
• Mentorship from experienced scientists in a collaborative team setting. 

Benefits

We are committed to creating a workplace where employees can thrive - both professionally and personally. To attract and retain top talent in a highly competitive industry, we offer a best-in-class benefits package that supports well-being, financial stability, and long-term career growth. Our offerings are designed to meet the diverse needs of our team members and their families, ensuring they feel valued and supported every step of the way. Highlights include medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a 401(k)-retirement plan with company match that vest fully on day one. Equity and stock options are available to employees in eligible roles, we offer eight weeks of paid parental leave after just three months of employment, and a paid time off policy that includes 15 vacation days, 5 personal days, 5 sick days, 11 U.S. national holidays, and 3 floating holidays. Additional benefits include flexible spending and health savings accounts, life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, legal assistance, and supplemental plans such as pet, critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance. We also provide commuter benefits, family planning and care resources, well-being initiatives, and peer-to-peer recognition programs - demonstrating our ongoing commitment to building a culture where our people feel empowered, supported, and inspired to do their best work.

EEO Statement

Legend Biotech is a proud equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to attracting, retaining, and maximizing the performance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is Legend’s policy to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, national origin, marital or domestic/civil partnership status, genetic information, citizenship status, uniformed service member or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Employment is at-will and may be terminated at any time with or without cause or notice by the employee or the company. Legend may adjust base salary or other discretionary compensation at any time based on individual, team, performance, or market conditions.

Legend Biotech maintains a drug-free workplace.