Scientist, Molecular Biology

Arena BioWorks, located in Cambridge, MA, is a new biomedical research institute focused on uncovering the mechanisms of human disease to identify opportunities for therapeutic intervention. The Institute's private funding model allows Arena to advance novel therapeutics by forming and supporting biotech companies up to the early clinical/series B stage.

We are seeking a Scientist with a strong background in molecular biology, single cell genomics technologies, and next-generation sequencing to join our Functional Genomics team. In this role, you will lead projects focused on building state-of-the-art molecular tools for pooled and arrayed gene perturbation screens and cell engineering, including using CRISPR-based approaches. You will also develop, optimize, and implement genomics assays to characterize complex cell model systems. Through close collaborations with other members of the Functional Genomics and Cellular Models teams, you will make essential contributions to our discovery efforts to identify therapeutic targets and assess target engagement in human disease models.

The desired candidate is passionate about developing and applying novel technologies with a goal of addressing outstanding biological questions and generating meaningful insights into human disease. They also strongly value collaborating with scientists across teams and scientific areas and enjoy continuously learning from the expertise of their peers and colleagues.

Responsibilities:

• Develop custom pooled and arrayed libraries (e.g. DNA, RNA, lentiviral) to enable high throughput CRISPR/Cas-mediated gene perturbation studies and novel screening modalities
• Develop workflows for single cell RNA-seq and multiomics library preparation and quality control
• Identify, develop, and optimize emerging genomics and NGS-based technologies to support internal research priorities and innovative new capabilities
• Apply lab automation to streamline high throughput cloning and NGS library preparation
• Collaborate across teams on molecular design projects and experimental strategies for high throughput validation of library performance
• Independently follow detailed protocols and troubleshoot problems, assist with experimental design and implementation, and train others in highly specialized techniques
• Maintain laboratory notebook and prepare written data reports, figures, and presentations of the research in the form of progress reports, manuscripts, and/or internal and external research presentations
  
  

Qualifications:

• Degree in molecular biology, cell biology, or related field with a demonstrated record of productivity. Ph.D. or M.S. preferred but equivalent experience levels considered
• 3+ years of experience in a research-related field required
• Expertise in molecular biology, including designing and cloning pooled or arrayed libraries or plasmid collections
• Proficiency in NGS sample preparation and quality control; experience with NGS data analysis is a plus
• Experienced in mammalian cell culture; familiarity with primary or iPS cell culture, genome engineering and CRISPR screening is a plus
• Strong interest in learning and troubleshooting new techniques and technologies
• Ability to work independently and as a team member, including to supervise and train junior associates
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate across organizational and functional boundaries
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills, both scientifically and in the ability to prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and adapt to shifting priorities
• Familiarity with lab automation, project management software, ELNs, and LIMS
• Strong written and verbal communication skills demonstrated by publication of research papers and presentations