What are the responsibilities and job description for the Scientist position at Portal?
Portal is a start-up cell engineering platform company focused on enabling next generation cell engineering and cell analytics across research and clinical applications. We are implementing a simplified approach to intracellular delivery, focused on accelerating advances enabled by the new generation of RNA, gene editing, and AI-driven technologies. Our initial product suite is based on a proprietary mechanical delivery system capable of delivering many different types of cargo to a broad range of cell types. Our technology's ability to be used stand-alone or as an integrated component of third-party systems provides a significant opportunity to broadly impact the fields of biological research and cellular therapeutics.
As we grow our team, we are seeking an innovative and motivated scientist with a molecular biology and cell engineering background to join our group in developing a library of molecules that would enable transient cell modifications complementary to editing technologies. This scientist will lead design and validation of modification strategies, including mRNA and siRNA, that could enable long term changes in cell function or performance through only transient engineering. This position will also support future clinical implementation with clinical and corporate partners. The successful candidate has a passion for early-stage research and thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
How you’ll make an impact:
- Design and test modification strategies in various cell types including iPSCs, primary cells, and immune cells
- Design and build modification packages related to desired cell function or state
- Evaluate functional performance of cells undergoing transient modification and demonstrate proof-of-concept for cell therapy applications
- Develop methodology and SOPs for optimal delivery of modification packages
- Work cross-functionally with the team to optimize ideal delivery strategies
- Determine optimal sourcing of molecular biology materials
- Closely coordinate with vendors to establish robust supply
- Coordinate and serve as point-of-contact for studies and applications with external collaborators & clients
Your experience & qualifications:
- PhD in bioengineering, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related field with 0-2 years experience; or MS in molecular biology or related field with 3-5 years experience
- Expertise in RNA biology and modalities of transient cell modification
- Expertise in cloning and vector design
- Familiarity with cell biology, including metabolic pathways, immunology, etc.
- Experience with primary cell culture, assay development, qPCR, multicolor flow cytometry
- Clear and effective communicator with strong interpersonal, organizational, and record-keeping skills
- Experience with microarray and/or RNAseq a plus
- Knowledge of genome engineering, CRISPR a plus
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and to provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex or gender identity, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, we comply with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.
