Scientist II

Harvard University•Boston, MA

23h•Onsite

About The Position

The Scientist II will lead the development and characterization of antibody brain shuttle compounds and optimize shuttles for specific payloads in neurodegenerative diseases. Reporting to the Principal Scientist, the role works with the Brain Targeting Program team using in vitro cellular systems and in vivo humanized mouse models. The scientist will determine brain pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) profiles and biophysical properties of shuttle compounds, and assess their therapeutic applications. The Brain Targeting Program aims to develop a modular brain-delivery platform for large-molecule therapeutics that can support treatments for diverse brain diseases and broaden the CNS drug pipeline. The position includes independent experimental work, project leadership, data presentation and analysis, mentoring, and laboratory support in collaboration with Institute colleagues and external collaborators. This is a fully onsite position. All duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. The standard schedule is 35 hours per week.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
At least 5 years of experience with cell culture, rodent handling, protein or antibody analytics, and molecular and cellular biology techniques such as ELISA, western blotting, confocal imaging, or fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), or related experience.
Advanced education may count toward the required years of experience.
Ability to work independently and collaborate with a multidisciplinary, diverse group of scientists and allied personnel.

Nice To Haves

PhD in neuroscience, biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
Industry experience.
Protein science and analytics experience, including BLI, SPR, and SEC.

Responsibilities

Independently develop, validate, and perform protocols, including confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, cell-based assays, and plate-based ELISA assays.
Present data and results at internal and external meetings.
Mentor and train less experienced technicians, academic trainees, and others.
Lead in vitro and in vivo validation of antibody shuttles using protein and cell-binding assays and brain and blood PK/PD studies in mouse models.
Perform in vivo procedures, including tail-vein intravenous injections, tissue harvesting from brain, blood, and peripheral tissues, and lysate preparation.
Perform ELISAs using various sample types and analyze and summarize data accurately and promptly.
Characterize antibody biophysical properties, including affinity using SPR and BLI and assessment of stability and purity.
Lead one or more projects to engineer and optimize shuttles for specific therapeutic payloads to treat brain diseases.
Perform assigned support activities and laboratory maintenance.
Work collaboratively with scientists, staff at the Institute, and external collaborators.

Benefits

Generous paid time off, including parental leave.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage starting on day one.
Retirement plans with university contributions.
Wellbeing and mental health resources.
Support for families and caregivers.
Professional development opportunities, including tuition assistance and reimbursement.
Commuter benefits, discounts, and campus perks.
Mentorship and support for professional growth and continued learning.
Gym reimbursements.
Access to facility amenities, including a rooftop terrace.