Scientist, Avian Cell Engineering

Colossal•Dallas, TX

18h•Onsite

About The Position

The Scientist will develop novel media formulations to culture primordial germ cells (PGCs) from non-model organisms, conduct functional assays, and characterize PGCs in vitro. The role is part of a synthetic biology platform developing and optimizing cell culture media for the production and expansion of PGCs, with downstream assays to assess germline functionality in non-model avian species. This position supports Colossal’s avian program by establishing PGC lines for conservation breeding and genetic rescue. The position is based in Dallas, Texas, and may require international travel. Relocation assistance is provided.

Requirements

Expert knowledge of cell culture, primary cell derivation, and propagation methodologies, preferably involving PGCs.
Previous experience optimizing growth media conditions for cell culture.
Experience staging and manipulating avian embryos, including injection into early-stage embryos.
Experience in molecular biology, including RNA extraction and qPCR.
Experience with RT-qPCR and flow cytometry.
Track record of working closely with computational collaborators to interpret scRNA-seq data.
Strong written and oral communication skills and creative problem-solving skills.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Strong emotional intelligence and ability to build relationships across all levels.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work well in a fast-paced startup, teamwork-oriented, growth-oriented, and nimble environment.
PhD in biological sciences, stem cell or germ cell biology, or a related field.
Postdoctoral or industry experience in stem cell or germ cell biology.

Nice To Haves

Experience deriving or culturing PGCs from avian species.
Previous work optimizing media for challenging cell types.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute experiments to culture PGCs from non-model avian organisms.
Use a dissection microscope to collect blood and tissue from avian embryos for cell line derivation.
Test novel PGC culture conditions; sort, screen, and expand PGCs using established protocols and newly developed approaches.
Interpret scRNA-seq and RT-qPCR datasets and use the data to develop media formulations tailored to specific avian species.
Work with the Avian Embryology team to develop protocols for injection of PGCs into early-stage embryos.
Own and deliver PGC derivation and culture milestones.
Attend lab meetings and prepare project progress reports and presentations.
Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records and protocols.