Scientist Functional Genomics

The businesses of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany•Billerica, MA

2h•$90,400 - $135,700•Onsite

About The Position

EMD Serono is hiring a Scientist of Functional Genomics for the Discovery Biology group within the Research Unit Neuroscience & Immunology (RU-N&I) at its research facility in Billerica, Massachusetts. The role contributes to discovering drugs for neurodegenerative, neuroinflammatory, and autoimmune diseases as part of an international, cross-functional team. The functional genomics group collaborates with disease biology experts, using gene-editing methods to identify and validate targets, generate cell models, explore novel biology, and provide genetic evidence to advance the Neuroscience & Immunology pipeline. The role does not offer work-authorization sponsorship; external applicants must be eligible to work in the United States.

Requirements

Master’s degree in a life science field and at least 2 years of academic or industry laboratory experience, or bachelor’s degree in a life science field and at least 3 years of academic or industry laboratory experience.
At least 2 years of experience with complex cell culture systems and primary cells or iPSCs.
At least 2 years of experience using and designing gene-editing tools.
At least 4 years of neuroscience experience, including experience with in vitro cell systems such as iPSC differentiation.

Nice To Haves

Background in immunology or neuroscience, with experience in in vitro cell systems such as iPSC differentiation or immune cell isolation.
Experience analyzing and disseminating data to support key decision-making.
Broad molecular and cellular biology experience, including multicolored flow cytometry, high-content imaging, NGS library preparation, single-cell omics data generation, and packaging and using lentivirus for gene expression.
Familiarity with documentation practices in a pharmaceutical or biotechnology discovery setting.
Strong verbal and written communication skills and experience communicating research findings to cross-disciplinary teams.
Curiosity, strong collaboration skills, and enthusiasm for exploring novel biology.

Responsibilities

Plan and execute in vitro studies using complex cell systems.
Use pooled, arrayed, and single-cell functional genomics methods to investigate disease biology at scale.
Use NGS, imaging, and FACS-based readouts to explore candidate genes’ roles in neurologic and immunologic disease.
Collaborate with disease biology experts to develop cellular models and assays.
Record data accurately in an Electronic Laboratory Notebook and maintain records in accordance with company policy and legal requirements.
Prepare data reports and present findings to lab heads, project teams, and at external meetings.
Provide technical support to colleagues in the area of expertise when necessary.
Work closely with RU-N&I members to support departmental goals.