| Job Description: |
This is a Biological Scientist position in a research lab studying adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy. The Biological Scientist is expected to be able to perform the following roles with minimal supervisory oversight: 1. Develop/Edit protocols to improve existing techniques or to incorporate new diagnostic procedures; 2. Oversee their execution assigned experiments; 3. Review, approve, or interpret scientific results; 4. Actively participate in technology transfer of developed processes to CDMO 5. Present researching findings to PI and at laboratory meetings and scientific conferences; 6. Maintain laboratory safety programs and train personnel in laboratory safety techniques; 7. Actively participate in the writing of grants, papers, and statements of work; 8. Develop and implement qualification protocols for assays used in the laboratory. 9. Supervise other Biological Scientist in the laboratory in order to perform these roles successfully.
The Biological Scientist III must be able to perform the following essential functions:
- AAV Production: The primary responsibility of this position is to optimize and execute AVV purification protocols utilizing current best practices. The goal is to be able to reproduce the yields and quality of the vector purified from shake flask to 10L bioreactor scale. The incumbent will design protocols, execute, analyze and report to the supervisor for review. This role also includes the evaluation of new lab technologies and collaboration with vendors to implement these new technologies. Perform formal process development to establish procedures for AAV purification that are transfer-ready for clinical manufacturing by contracted CMDOs.
- CDMO-Related Activities: Prepare downstream portion of RFP documents for submission to CMDO and review proposals. Prepare tech transfer documents and manage transfer of projects to contracted CDMO. Manage downstream portion of CMDO-contracted projects throughout production and manufacturing via regular CMDO-client meetings with a focus on maintaining proposed timeline and budget. Provide guidance and troubleshooting support as lead downstream SME as needed. Perform in-house small-scale supporting studies as needed in partnership with CDMO.
- Standard Operating Procedures and Batch Records: Writing new and/or editing existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for reagent preparations, cleaning procedures, equipment maintenance, and safety procedures regarding handling and disposal of biological and hazardous materials in accordance with GLP and UF EH&S standards. Drafting batch records for AAV production runs in accordance with GLP and industry standards.
- Supervisory Role: Manage direct reports which may include student volunteers, technicians, and/or biological scientists to accomplish primary job responsibilities. Management will include scheduling, on the job trainings (OJTs), review and feedback of data, and mentorship/guidance for professional development.
- Budget Management: Manage the use of funds allocated by the Principal Investigator for AAV production in accordance with funded objectives. Budget management will include strategic development of cost-effective protocols for AAV purification, purchase of equipment, reagents and consumables, preventative maintenance and repair of equipment, and general laboratory maintenance.
- Other: Perform tasks and experiments as directed by the Principal Investigator. Any other duties, as needed, to fulfill the mission and to abide by the values of the College of Medicine.
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| Preferred: |
- Experience in gene therapy research
- Advanced degree in related scientific field
- Working knowledge of basic laboratory techniques
- Must be extremely knowledgeable in laboratory procedures and must be meticulous in recording, tracking & reporting of data collected
- Trained in common upstream and downstream purification protocols that include but not limited to cell line development, clonal selection, ion and anion exchange chromatography, affinity preparative chromatography, filtration, tangential flow filtration
- Experience in eukaryotic cell culture, growth, count, seeding, and some knowledge of basic molecular biological assays including but not limited to PCR, Protein and DNA electrophoresis, Western Blots etc.
- Working understanding of molecular biology, cell biology, physics and chemistry of protein and virus purification using chromatography and other downstream devices, work in laboratory environment and with biological reagents, working in sterile environment
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| Special Instructions to Applicants: |
To be considered for this position, please upload your cover letter or letter of interest, resume, and a list of professional references.
Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm. Nights & weekends as needed for on-going research.
The University of Florida is committed to non-discrimination with respect to race, creed, color, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, political opinions or affiliations, genetic information and veteran status in all aspects of employment including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training.
This is a time-limited position.
Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date
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