Platform Biologist, CRISPR Screening
Run pooled CRISPR screens that identify disease-relevant targets in oncology and immune-biology models.
About the role
The company runs a functional-genomics platform used to find and validate therapeutic targets across oncology and immune-biology discovery programs. As a Platform Biologist, you will run pooled CRISPR screens from cell culture and viral transduction through selection, gDNA preparation, QC, and sequencing handoff. The team needs a careful bench scientist who can keep coverage, controls, and documentation strong as screen volume grows.
- Team: Functional genomics platform of 6 across screening, assay biology, and follow-up validation
- Stage: Series A functional-genomics platform expanding oncology and immune-biology discovery programs
- Reporting line: Director, Functional Genomics
- Experience: MS with 3+ years, or BS with 5+ years, in pooled CRISPR screening or functional genomics
- Rhythm: Lab-based role in Cambridge with limited remote flexibility
Responsibilities
- Run pooled CRISPR workflows including cell expansion, lentiviral transduction, antibiotic or marker selection, sampling, and genomic DNA preparation.
- Monitor MOI, guide representation, replicate consistency, cell health, selection pressure, and positive/negative controls so weak screens are caught early.
- Maintain clear protocols, batch records, coverage calculations, culture notes, sequencing-prep records, and troubleshooting history.
- Work with computational biology and assay teams to review QC, explain screen limitations, and prioritize follow-up validation assays.
Requirements
- MS with 3+ years, or BS with 5+ years, of industry or translational lab experience in pooled CRISPR screening, functional genomics, perturbation screening, or related molecular biology workflows.
- Hands-on experience with mammalian tissue culture, lentiviral transduction or infection, selection conditions, and BSL-2 practices.
- Working understanding of screen QC metrics including MOI, guide coverage, representation, replicate quality, positive and negative controls, and dropout behavior.
- Comfort preparing genomic DNA or sequencing-ready material and partnering with computational colleagues on screen readouts.
- Strong experimental judgment around artifacts, batch effects, cell-health issues, and when a screen should be repeated or redesigned.
Preferred qualifications
- Experience with FACS or flow-based screens.
- Exposure to MAGeCK, CRISPResso, NGS QC, or simple Python/R analysis for screen troubleshooting.
Technical stack
- pooled CRISPR screening
- lentiviral transduction
- mammalian tissue culture
- MOI/coverage tracking
- BSL-2 workflows
- genomic DNA prep
- FACS/flow cytometry
- NGS QC
- MAGeCK/CRISPResso
What we offer
- Base salary: $132k - $158k
- Equity / upside: Series A equity plus annual bonus.
- Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k), commuter support, and relocation on a case-by-case basis.
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