Scientist II - Viral Vector

Our client, a world leader in biotechnology and life sciences, is looking for a “Scientist II - Viral Vector” based out of South San Francisco, CA (Hybrid).

Rate: $65/hr on W2 (DOE)
Job Duration: Long-Term Contract (Possibility Of Extension)
Company Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Sick Leave, 401K

Summary:
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We are seeking a highly motivated Viral Vector Research Associate/Scientist with 5–10 years of laboratory research experience to support our Viral Vector Core and gene therapy research programs. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in viral vector production, mammalian cell culture, molecular biology, and CRISPR genome editing technologies. This role involves the production and characterization of lentiviral and AAV vectors, supporting next-generation viral vector engineering, maintaining viral inventories, and collaborating with cross-functional research teams to advance innovative gene therapy platforms.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce, purify, and characterize lentiviral libraries and Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors to support research and preclinical studies.
• Perform viral vector analytics using molecular biology techniques including PCR, qPCR, ddPCR/dPCR, Western blot, and related assays.
• Maintain and manage viral vector inventory, sample tracking, and documentation using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN) and digital informatics systems.
• Support the engineering, optimization, and development of next-generation viral vectors and emerging viral-based therapeutic modalities.
• Perform mammalian cell culture, transient plasmid transfection, cloning, and other molecular biology techniques.
• Participate in CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing experiments for both in vitro and in vivo applications.
• Operate laboratory instrumentation including flow cytometers and support data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation, experimental records, and inventory following established laboratory procedures.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams to support gene therapy, virology, and genome engineering projects.
• Analyze experimental data, troubleshoot protocols, and contribute to continuous process improvements.

Required Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Virology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Genetics, or a related scientific discipline.
• 5–10 years of laboratory research experience in molecular biology, virology, or gene therapy.
• Hands-on experience with lentiviral vector production and/or AAV production.
• Strong experience with mammalian cell culture and transient plasmid transfection.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques including:
  • PCR
  • qPCR
  • ddPCR / dPCR
  • Western Blot
• Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technologies.
• Strong organizational, analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with viral vector engineering and next-generation viral modalities.
• Experience operating flow cytometers.
• Familiarity with electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN) and digital sample management systems.
• Experience with data analysis, computational programming, and bioinformatics tools.
• Previous experience supporting gene therapy, viral vector core facilities, or translational research programs.

If interested, please share your updated resume at [email protected]/[email protected]