Scientist II – Vector Development
About The Position
We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist II to support viral vector development and genetic construct workflows in a fast-paced, collaborative, execution-focused translational research environment. The role works closely with senior scientists engaged in lentiviral vector design, mRNA delivery systems, and transposon-based construct engineering. The ideal candidate has strong hands-on molecular biology skills and thrives in a detail-oriented laboratory environment focused on high-quality execution and reproducible experimental work. The position provides direct exposure to advanced gene delivery systems and opportunities for technical growth in translational genomics and gene therapy. The Scientist II works in the MCC Laboratories on the Upper East Side. The position has a 35-hour workweek and is exempt. The salary range is $75,000 to $94,400.
Requirements
- Master’s degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related field.
- 3–5 years of hands-on laboratory experience in molecular biology and primary cell cultures in an academic or industry setting.
- Proficiency in mammalian tissue culture techniques, including passaging, counting, maintenance, and freezing/thawing cells.
- Experience with bacterial culture and plasmid propagation.
- Experience performing plasmid DNA purification workflows.
- Familiarity with standard molecular biology techniques, including pipetting, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and restriction digests.
- Experience or familiarity with lentiviral vector production.
- Understanding of sterile technique and biosafety best practices.
- Familiarity with basic viral handling or BSL-2 laboratory environments.
- Ability to follow detailed experimental protocols with high reproducibility.
- Strong attention to detail and experimental consistency.
- Ability to execute complex protocols accurately and reliably.
- Strong organizational and documentation skills.
- Collaborative mindset and willingness to support team-based research goals.
- Eagerness to learn advanced molecular and gene delivery techniques.
Nice To Haves
- Knowledge or experience with viral vector production downstream engineering, including filtration and chromatography, especially for lentiviral systems.
- Experience with transfection methods such as PEI, lipid-based reagents, or electroporation.
- Experience with DNA construct screening and validation workflows.
- Exposure to cell-based functional assays or flow cytometry.
Responsibilities
- Independently perform routine and advanced mammalian cell culture, including maintenance of adherent and suspension cell lines.
- Prepare and handle reagents for transfection and transduction experiments and resolve routine preparation issues.
- Execute plasmid DNA preparation, such as Maxiprep, assess yield and quality, and troubleshoot routine deviations.
- Perform quality control of plasmid constructs through restriction digest analysis, PCR, and sequencing preparation; interpret results and identify discrepancies.
- Conduct lentiviral production workflows, including transient transfection of packaging systems, viral harvest, and downstream processing such as concentration and purification; troubleshoot routine process issues.
- Perform viral titering, concentration, and functional validation assays and analyze results.
- Execute cloning workflows, including bacterial transformation, colony screening, and plasmid expansion; troubleshoot routine cloning failures.
- Perform sterile technique-based molecular and cell biology experiments, adapting established procedures as needed to ensure accuracy and reproducibility.
- Train and mentor junior research associates, interns, and new laboratory personnel on laboratory procedures, equipment operation, and best practices.
- Maintain complete, traceable laboratory records and review documentation for accuracy and completeness.
- Collaborate with senior scientists and contribute technical observations and recommendations to iterative construct-design and testing cycles.
- Maintain laboratory organization, monitor reagent stocks, and reinforce compliance with biosafety protocols, including BSL-2 practices where applicable.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
