Sr. Research Associate

The Senior Research Associate is a member of the Liver Research Group within the Translational Research Department and will support the Liver Research Group in laboratory research activities towards development and testing of novel gene therapy products. He/she will be responsible for:

• Performance of routine assays across the different liver research group pipeline programs (e.g. molecular cloning, ELISA, qPCR, western blot, etc).

• Development and Implementation of new assays (e.g. cell-based, enzymatic, immunoassays, etc.) or optimization of existing assays based on in-depth knowledge of laboratory techniques.

• Analysis and accurate documentation of assay results in an electronic lab notebook, technical documents and other reporting formats.

• Provide guidance to new and existing employees that will allow them to achieve autonomous operation in the lab ensuring work is completed according to project timelines.

Responsibilities

Plan, prepare and perform experiments on the bench to support of the Liver Research Group pre-clinical programs. Assist technical staff in the performance of laboratory experiments as needed.

Analyze results, prepare technical reports and accurately document work in electronic lab notebook. Prepare PowerPoint presentations of results as needed.

Participate in group meetings, scientific discussions, and provide support to more junior staff, as needed.

Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; Masters in a relevant field preferred.

• Minimum of 5-8 years laboratory experience.

• Broad understanding of the technical and equipment needs in a lab as well as extensive hands-on experience with standard molecular and cell biology techniques such as DNA cloning, qPCR, ELISA, cell culture, transfection, western blotting, etc.

• Experience with AAV vectors is a plus.

Key Skills, Abilities, and Competencies

• Experience in general and advanced lab techniques such as molecular cloning and plasmid design and construction, qPCR, ELISA, cell culture, plate-based luciferase and/or enzymatic activity assays, SDS-PAGE/western blotting, etc.

• Experience with studies in laboratory animals.

• Proven ability to work independently in hands-on laboratory setting, self-motivated to learn and develop new techniques, perform multiple tasks simultaneously, keep accurate records, follow instructions, and comply with company policies.

• Familiarity of Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN) and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) a plus.

• Familiar with computer software commonly used in bio/pharma industries.

• Strong organizational skills.

• Excellent communication skills (both oral and written).

• Works with colleagues as a team player.

Please be aware that Spark mandates COVID-19 vaccination of all employees regardless of work location. Accommodations may be made in accordance with applicable law.

Nearest Major Market: Philadelphia

Join the Spark Team

We were born of innovation, springing from the curiosity, imagination and dedication of remarkable scientists and healthcare visionaries. Our shared mission is to challenge the inevitability of genetic disease by discovering, developing, and delivering treatments in ways unimaginable - until now.

We don't follow footsteps. We create the path.