Research Scientist/Engr 4 - University of Washington

Req #: 237954 Department: BIOCHEMISTRY/IPD Posting Date: 08/27/2024 Closing Info: Open Until Filled Salary: $8,000 - $10,500 per month Shift: First Shift Notes: As a UW employee, you will enjoy generous benefits and work/life programs. For a complete description of our benefits for this position, please visit our website, click here. (https://hr.uw.edu/benefits/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2018/02/benefits-professional-staff-librarians-academic-staff-20230701\_a11y.pdf ) As a UW employee, you have a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees offer their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills, and dedication to build stronger minds and a healthier world. UW faculty and staff also enjoy outstanding benefits, professional growth opportunities and unique resources in an environment noted for diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits, and natural beauty. Located at the University of Washington in Seattle, the Institute for Protein Design is a unique interdisciplinary environment where world-class researchers create molecules that solve modem challenges in medicine, technology, and sustainability. Joining our team means becoming part of one of the largest and most innovative public universities in the world. Your work here will support scientific inquiry and help ensure that laboratory breakthroughs lead to positive impact. **POSITION PURPOSE** Over the next few years, the IPD hopes to establish a Genetic Delivery Core R&D lab that enables the development and delivery of computationally designed biologics. The IPD has pioneered computational methods for protein design that include peptides, mini binders, designed antibodies and vaccines. In order to support the continued development of these next-generation medicines, the IPD is seeking an experienced scientist to help build a core facility that focuses on genetic delivery of biologics and vaccines including manufacturing, LNP formulation and characterization of mRNA and other genetic delivery approaches including AAV delivery and vector design. The ideal candidate would have R&D experience in the field of drug discovery or vaccine research and a track record of leading a small team that supports interdisciplinary research programs. **DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES** + Build out and maintain a core facility that supports manufacturing and formulation of mRNA and other genetic delivery approaches for vaccines and biologics. Rapidly integrate new equipment into production workflows (50%) + Operationalize production of DNA and mRNA for the preclinical development of IPD priority programs. Development of DNA and mRNA production protocols, reports and CoTs that support multiple programs (15%) + Research applications related to improved genetic expression and targeted delivery of biologics and vaccines (15%) + Onboard, train and manage a small, specialized team of research technicians and scientists (10%) + Liaise with key external partners including formulation experts and tech transfer to GMP partners (5%) + Provide scientific and milestone updates to internal and external stakeholders (5%) **MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS** + Master's Degree in Biochemistry or other Science related fields and four years of relevant experience, OR Equivalent combination of education/experience. **Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.** **ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS** + Strong background in DNA vector design and production + Experience in biomanufacturing and characterization of biologics or viral vectors + Experience with generating and characterizing packaging vectors and/or delivery vehicles such as LNPs, synthetic capsids or AAVs + Experience leading a core facility, maintaining equipment and training staff + Track record of developing and optimizing standard operating procedures + Experience developing and deploying a LIMS for tracking of critical reagents and bath reports **DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS** + MA or above in biochemistry or related fields (chemistry, immunology, bioengineering, etc) or 4 years or more years of equivalent biotech experience. + Experience working with interdisciplinary teams + Detail oriented + Strong communication skills (written and verbal) **Other** This position is eligible for H-1B sponsorship. **Application Process:** The application process may include completion of a variety of online assessments to obtain additional information that will be used in the evaluation process. These assessments may include Work Authorization, Cover Letter and/or others. Any assessments that you need to complete will appear on your screen as soon as you select "Apply to this position". Once you begin an assessment, it must be completed at that time; if you do not complete the assessment, you will be prompted to do so the next time you access your "My Jobs" page. If you select to take it later, it will appear on your "My Jobs" page to take when you are access ready. Please note that your application will not be reviewed, and you will not be considered for this position until all required assessments have been completed. University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.