Senior Scientist Ophthalmology > Mountain View CA

JOB Description

Turn Biotechnologies is currently seeking a highly qualified scientist for the position of Senior Scientist - Ophthalmology.

The employee will be a highly motivated and innovative individual responsible for the scientific/ technical aspects of evaluating novel mRNA-based therapeutics for epigenetic reprogramming and rejuvenation of ocular tissue for the treatment of age-related ophthalmic indications. This lab-based position will be critical to the development, evaluation, and application of Turn’s cutting-edge technology for its ophthalmology pipeline.

COMPANY

Based in Mountain View, California, Turn Biotechnologies, Inc. is a development-stage company focused on restoring cells’ youthful vigor to repair damage caused by the aging process. Using a proprietary ERA™ Platform, we develop mRNA medicines that are specially formulated to instruct specific cells in the body to fight disease or repair damaged tissue. We do this by reprogramming the epigenome to restore cell function that people often lose as they age. This approach can be used to revitalize different cells throughout the body. We are researching its applicability across multiple therapeutic areas, including dermatology, ophthalmology, osteocartilage, and skeletal muscular indications.

Responsibilities:

Essential duties of the position include:

  • Design and perform experiments using established and novel ophthalmic models to evaluate epigenic reprogramming in various eye cell populations and tissues

  • Evaluate drug delivery, transfection efficiency, and therapeutic efficacy of Turn’s platform technology in ophthalmic in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models 

  • Establish and maintain cell and tissue culture model systems

  • Assist in the mentoring of research assistants and/or laboratory technicians

  • Proficient execution of standard molecular and cell biology techniques including cloning (plasmid construction, mutagenesis), RNA/DNA manipulation (DNA sequencing, enzyme digestion/modification, agarose gel electrophoresis, PCR, RT-PCR), protein analysis (ELISA, Immunoprecipitation, SDS-PAGE and Western blotting), transfection, ddPCR, routine mammalian cell culture, cell transfection, and various types of microscopy for cell and tissue imaging

  • Develop, validate, and write laboratory protocols and technical reports

  • Organize data, maintain detailed records, and effectively communicate results in a timely fashion

Qualifications

Education/Experience

  • PhD, MD, or MD/PhD in cellular biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or related discipline; candidates with relevant industry experience will also be considered

  • Background including developmental and stem cell biology is a significant plus  

  • 5-7 years’ experience (beyond Ph.D., including post-doctoral work) in ophthalmology-related translational research

  • Industry experience is a significant plus

  • Experience in cell and tissue culturing and assays specific to eye-related research

  • Experience using animal and ex vivo tissue models of ocular indications 

  • Experience in ophthalmic drug development, delivery and evaluation is a significant plus

  • Experience in genetic engineering, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, RNAseq/ChIPseq, advanced molecular biology, genomic data analysis, and/or other cutting-edge analytical methods is highly desirable

  • Collaboration with other teams and team member across company programs

  • Exceptional written and oral communication skills

Auxiliary:

  • In addition to ophthalmology, experience in one or more of focus areas (dermatology, immunology, and oncology) will be a plus

  • Experience developing and evaluating mRNA-based, gene editing, or ophthalmic therapeutics

  • Novel animal model system adaptation and application

REQUIRED Characteristics

  • Ownership mindset

  • Ability to excel in a fast-paced biotechnology environment and achieve goals and milestones with quality, precision, and speed

  • Ability to solve complex problems creatively, whether scientific or managerial in nature.

  • Ability to work independently, show self-initiative and attention to detail, and motivation to explore new techniques and concepts are essential

  • Strong work ethic

  • Proactive and organized

  • Superior interpersonal skills

Why Turn?

  • We are a close-knit, collaborative team, passionate about anti-aging and longevity to improve age-related disease and the quality of people’s lives

  • You will be a vital part of the company and have tremendous impact on its success

  • Competitive compensation & benefits package (medical, dental, vision, life insurance)

  • 401K, FSA, and flexible PTO

  • Employee Assistance Program

Turn Biotechnologies is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status or disability status.