Scientist, Avian Cell Engineering

Colossal Biosciences•Dallas, TX

10h•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 perform in vitro characterization of PGCs. As part of an innovative synthetic biology platform, the Scientist will develop and optimize a cell culture media platform for PGC production and expansion, with downstream assays to assess germline functionality in non-model avian species. This role 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. The Scientist will work with the Avian Embryology team and computational collaborators, own PGC derivation and culture milestones, and contribute to project reporting, presentations, and laboratory documentation.

Requirements

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.
Expert knowledge of cell culture, primary cell derivation, and propagation methodologies, preferably involving PGCs.
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 growth-oriented, nimble environment and as part of a team; enjoys a fast-paced startup environment.

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 primordial germ cells (PGCs) from non-model avian organisms.
Collect blood and tissue from avian embryos using a dissection microscope for cell line derivations.
Test novel PGC culture conditions; sort, screen, and expand PGCs using current protocols and newly developed approaches, particularly for the germ cell lineage.
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 injecting 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.