Poseida Therapeutics, Inc. is searching for an outstanding Scientist (Research Scientist I, Research Scientist II or Sr. Research Scientist) to join our Gene Therapy team in San Diego, CA. This position offers an exciting opportunity to discover and develop next-generation products using Poseida’s best-in-class genome editing, gene insertion, and delivery technologies. This role will manage and execute in vivo and in vitro pharmacology work from discovery to drug candidate nomination, and IND-enabling activities working closely with formulations, analytical chemistry, molecular engineering, and translational teams. Experience with Hemophilia A, gene therapies, and/or LNP delivery is highly valued.

Responsibilities 

These may include but are not limited to:

• Lead in vivo pharmacology activities in rodents and large animals for Poseida’s in vivo genetic medicines team, comprising platform discovery, feasibility assessment, therapeutic proof-of-concept, and candidate nomination
• Plan and execute studies in rodents and large animals to characterize the in vivo pharmacology (PK/PD, biodistribution), toxicology, safety, and efficacy of Poseida’s genetic medicines systems, including hands-on work designing/validating/implementing in vivo disease models
• Lead, design, execute bioanalytical assays relevant to the target disease(s)
• Support internal Formulations and Analytical teams in the design and execution of experiments related to product analytical method development and bioassay development
• Work closely with Poseida’s Formulations, Molecular Biology, and Chemistry teams in the design of next-generation genetic medicine platforms
• Stay abreast of new gene therapy platform and mechanistic results from Poseida and other companies
• Work effectively with internal and outsourced animal resources to manage disease model generation, colony maintenance, study execution and data analysis
• Work effectively with Poseida Project Management teams to set, maintain and manage program timelines and deliverables
• Author study design protocols, technical reports, and contribute to regulatory filings
• Analyze data and report to multidisciplinary groups
• Attend scientific meetings, critically evaluate data, and present scientific results
• Keep current on trends, new products and technologies in the gene therapy and gene editing fields
• Manage 1-4 Research Technicians, Research Associates, and/or Junior Scientists, as needed
• Local travel to and from Poseida office and Vivarium is required.

Requirements, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Research Scientist I - Ph.D. in a scientific discipline (e.g., molecular biology, cell biology, pharmacology, toxicology, immunology, or other relevant scientific field) with up zero to two years of relevant experience (an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered)
• Research Scientist II - Ph.D. in a scientific discipline (e.g., molecular biology, cell biology, pharmacology, toxicology, immunology, or other relevant scientific field) with up two to five years of relevant experience (an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered)
• Senior Research Scientist – Ph.D with 5+ years of relevant industry experience (an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered)
• Preference for demonstrated experience in transitioning one or more gene therapy program(s) from feasibility through disease proof-of-concept and/or candidate nomination
• Preference for background/certification in toxicology
• Strong hands-on experience with complex drug formulations, such as nanoparticles and viral vectors, for in vivo gene therapy
• Demonstrated expertise in the biology and relevant animal models of at least one of the following classes of genetic diseases: urea cycle disorders, inborn errors of amino acid, carbohydrate, or lipid metabolism, organic acidemia, lysosomal storage disorders, or congenital hematologic diseases, strong preference for experience with Hemophilia
• Experience with routine assays (qPCR and/or ddPCR, immune-staining (IHC/IFC), immunoassays (ELISA, MSD, Luminex) and Western blot) is highly desirable
• Familiarity with USDA, PHS, and AAALAC guidance on use of animals in research.
• Must be highly motivated and capable of working in a multidisciplinary team environment with scientists and external collaborators
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills, and the ability to present and defend positions and approaches critical to program progression and success
• Critical-thinker and detail-focused manager with a desire to lead, inspire, and discover in the context of team-based cross-functional science