Principal Scientist, Functional Genomics

Xaira Therapeutics•South San Francisco, CA

22h•$175,000 - $205,000

About The Position

Xaira is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Principal Scientist to join our Functional Genomics team with a focus on high-throughput perturbation platforms and single-cell genomics technologies. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in CRISPR-based screening approaches, perturb-seq, and large-scale functional genomics workflows, with experience generating high-quality datasets to support both therapeutic discovery and AI/ML modeling initiatives. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge efforts at the intersection of functional genomics, machine learning, and disease biology. You will work closely with AI/ML scientists, computational biologists, automation engineers, and disease biology teams to develop scalable perturbation workflows, implement new technologies, and drive high-quality data generation and experimental innovation across multiple therapeutic areas.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Immunology, Genomics, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or related scientific discipline with 10+ years of relevant industry and/or applied research experience
Deep expertise in CRISPR-based screening approaches, perturb-seq, and single-cell RNA sequencing technologies, with a strong track record developing and scaling high-throughput functional genomics platforms
Experience generating, analyzing, and interpreting large-scale perturbation datasets across complex cellular systems including primary cells, differentiated models, and organoid systems
Familiarity with AI/ML applications in functional genomics and experience collaborating closely with computational and data science teams
Demonstrated ability to independently lead scientific initiatives, drive cross-functional collaboration, and mentor scientists within multidisciplinary research environments
Excellent analytical, organizational, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to thrive in fast-paced, highly collaborative environments focused on scientific innovation

Responsibilities

Lead high-throughput perturbation and functional genomics efforts supporting therapeutic discovery and AI/ML-driven research initiatives
Develop and implement advanced functional genomics technologies, including perturb-seq, CRISPRi/a, and single-cell omics workflows across complex cellular systems such as primary cells, differentiated cell types, and in vivo models
Design, optimize, and scale screening workflows to improve throughput, reproducibility, data quality, and experimental robustness
Collaborate closely with AI/ML scientists, computational biologists, automation engineers, and disease biology teams to integrate large-scale perturbation datasets into predictive modeling frameworks
Contribute to scientific strategy, experimental design, protocol development, and prioritization across multiple programs and platform initiatives
Present scientific findings and contribute to publications, patents, and scientific presentations while mentoring and providing scientific guidance to researchers within the organization