What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Associate, Disease Biology (Contract) position at AIRNA?
COMPANY OVERVIEW
AIRNA is pioneering the discovery and development of RNA editing therapeutics to deliver on the promise of genetically defined medicines for patients with rare and common diseases. RNA editing is poised to lead the next generation of RNA therapeutics by targeting diseases not accessible through other approaches with a medicine that can be conveniently re-dosed and manufactured. AIRNA’s founders, Thorsten Stafforst and Jin Billy Li, were the first to elucidate a therapeutic approach for precise editing of RNA using the endogenous enzyme ADAR. Initial financing of the company was led by ARCH Venture Partners, with participation from ND Capital, Fast Track Initiative (FTI), Novalis, and Codon Capital. AIRNA has headquarters in Cambridge, MA, with research operations in Tübingen, Germany.
JOB DESCRIPTION
AIRNA is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our Preclinical Development team in Cambridge, MA for a 6-month contract and assist in executing activities associated with AIRNAs drug development programs advancing novel therapeutics to the clinic.
Responsibilities
As a member of AIRNA’s Preclinical team, you will be involved in the development and execution of biochemical and cell-based assays for-RNA-modifying oligonucleotides. Your responsibilities will include:
• Working independently or with minimal supervision to develop, validate, and qualify biochemical assays, including PK and PD assays.
• Preparing RNA and proteins from cell or animal samples and analyzing these samples by qPCR, ELISA, MSD, next-generation sequencing, or Western blot analysis.
• Generating detailed study summaries and preparing reports for IND submission.
• Performing general lab duties such as maintenance of lab equipment and reagent preparations.
• Maintaining accurate and complete records in an electronic notebook; preparing and updating documentation as needed (SOP, Batch Records, etc.).
• Ensuring compliance with company policies, procedures, and safety regulations.
• Being a positive, collaborative, and committed team member.
Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or Pharmaceutical Sciences.
• 1 - 5 years of relevant working experience in industry. Experience in the field of oligonucleotide therapies is highly desirable.
• Previous experience in oligonucleotide PK and PD assays.
• Demonstrated ability to execute relevant biochemical plate-based assays such as RT-qPCR, ELISA, ligand-binding assays, etc.
• Experience with aseptic laboratory technique required.
• Timely and detailed experimental documentation.
• Being detail-oriented with strong analytical and trouble-shooting skills.
• Working familiarity with Microsoft Office and PRISM.
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team and to adapt within a fast-changing environment.
Requirements
• Biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry experience.
• Experience in bioanalytical assay development and qualification based on regulatory guidelines.
• Experience in using automatic liquid handlers and performing assays in 384 plate formats.
• Experience with animal handling procedures including dosing (SC), blood and tissue collection (necropsy) is desirable but not required.