Scientist II, Molecular Biology

Company Summary:

FL87. is a privately held, early-stage biotechnology company developing a novel approach to gene therapy that can address currently untreatable diseases.

FL87 was founded by Flagship Pioneering, an innovation enterprise that conceives, creates, resources, and grows first-in-category life sciences companies.

Flagship Pioneering has created over 100 groundbreaking companies over the past twenty years, all of which are pioneering novel and proprietary biological, industrial, and engineering approaches to solve major needs in human health and sustainability. These companies include Moderna (MRNA), Syros Pharmaceuticals (SYRS), Seres Therapeutics (NASDAQ:MCRB), Generate Biomedicines, Tessera Tx, Evelo Biosciences (EVLO), and Indigo Agriculture.

The role

We are seeking an outstanding Scientist II, to join us in building the next generation of Programmable Medicines. We're looking for a versatile molecular virologist with experience in molecular and cell biology. We're looking for an individual who brings scientific rigor, intellectual curiosity, enthusiasm, and a desire to innovate new nucleic acid therapeutics. This individual will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic and fast-paced entrepreneurial environment, working as part of a highly collaborative and growing team.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee the production and modification of nucleic acids, including DNA and RNA, with a focus on analyzing and optimizing gene expression levels.
• Investigate host-cell nucleic acid interface and its influence on transgene expression and develop innovative methods to increase nucleic acid production yields.
• Study nucleic acid-protein interactions to enhance functional outcomes both in vitro and in vivo, contributing to the advancement of cutting-edge therapeutic solutions.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including CMC and chemistry, to improve the purity of produced materials and streamline production processes through method optimization and troubleshooting.
• Play a pivotal role in training and mentoring junior scientists, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and innovation.

Who you are

• Technical expert:
• You have a Ph.D. and 2+ years of industry experience, in virology or biochemistry.
• Deep expertise in nucleic acid innovation and assay development, especially focused upon the host nucleic acid interface
• Deep expertise in arrayed screening and analysis.
• Expertise in bacterial systems and their genetic modification is a plus, and a background in virology is highly desirable.
• Expertise in Molecular cloning.
• The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong organizational skills and adaptability, thriving in a fast-paced research environment with shifting priorities and tight deadlines. Reporting directly to the Director of Molecular Biology, the Scientist II must be capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining meticulous attention to detail. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and development efforts, driving scientific progress in a collaborative and forward-thinking organization.
• Effective communication is critical. It is expected to present findings in lab meetings, contribute to external collaborations, and develop presentation materials for diverse audiences.

Location: Cambridge, MA

Values and Behaviors:

Flagship is an experiment in institutional, entrepreneurial, and innovation practiced in the context of a small company with an insurgent mindset. We are seeking individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit, strong communication skills, and comfort in working in and contributing to a dynamic and cross-functional team environment.

At Flagship, we recognize there is no perfect candidate. If you have some of the experience listed above but not all, we encourage you to apply anyway. Experience comes in many forms, skills are transferable, and passion goes a long way. We are dedicated to building diverse and inclusive teams and look forward to learning more about your unique background. The level of the role will be commensurate with the education and years of experience of the identified candidates.

Flagship Pioneering and our ecosystem companies are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.

Recruitment & Staffing Agencies: Flagship Pioneering and its affiliated Flagship Lab companies (collectively, "FSP") do not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than candidates. The submission of unsolicited resumes by recruitment or staffing agencies to FSP or its employees is strictly prohibited unless contacted directly by Flagship Pioneering's internal Talent Acquisition team. Any resume submitted by an agency in the absence of a signed agreement will automatically become the property of FSP, and FSP will not owe any referral or other fees with respect thereto.