Senior Research Associate

The Sr. Research Associate - Molecular Assays will be a member of the Bioanalytical Sciences department, supporting multiple non-clinical assays for advancing fast-paced novel gene therapy programs across all Therapeutic Areas at Spark Therapeutics. The position requires experiences in molecular bioanalytical and biomarker assays, including gene copy number assessment, data analysis and technical troubleshooting.

Responsibilities and expectations include:

• Assist senior scientists in the development of multiple molecular analytical assays
• Assist with experimental design, data analysis and review, prepare results documentations
• Utilize high level of technical expertise and sound judgment for troubleshooting complex molecular biology technical problems and finding appropriate solutions.
• Lead preclinical sample testing efforts
• Experience with high-throughput processing devices such as QuantStudio, QIAsymphony and epMotion to accommodate considerable number of sample testing
• Document all data in electronic lab notebook
• Support of Sample Management systems for preclinical assays and tracking sample inventory.

• Support the lab manager in coordinating the workload.
• Champion all safety aspects in the Molecular Assay Laboratories.

Responsibilities

% Of Time

Job Function and Description

40%

Molecular assay development and optimization including qPCR assays for biodistribution, RT-qPCR assays for transgene expression and biomarkers; dPCR assays for research projects; miRNA analysis using RT-qPCR and dPCR.

40%

Lead sample analysis from all therapeutic areas and supervise junior Research Associate .

20%

General lab tasks including lab safety, ordering, sample management, supervise junior research associates and lab interns.

Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences is required
• Masters in a relevant field preferred
• Generally, has 5-8 years relevant experience

Key Skills, Abilities, and Competencies

• Knowledge in molecular assay development in biological matrices, data analysis and technical troubleshooting to find suitable solutions.
• Experience with biological sample testing, analyzing data and summarizing results in technical documents.
• Experience using analytical tools such as SoftMax Pro, Prism and Excel, and common statistical analysis.
• Expert skills in synthesizing research findings and effectively communicating findings in departmental discussion forums.

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.

Spark Therapeutics does not accept unsolicited resumes/candidate profiles from any source other than directly from candidates. Any unsolicited resume/candidate profile submitted through our website or to personal email accounts of employees of Spark Therapeutics are considered property of Spark Therapeutics and are not subject to payment of agency fees.

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.

Learn more about Spark Therapeutics and view other openings.