Scientist II

4D Molecular Therapeutics•Emeryville, CA

1d•$140,000 - $155,000

About The Position

The Scientist II role is in 4DMT’s Biomarkers & Immunology department and supports biomarker measurements and clinical pharmacology deliverables by developing novel bioanalytical methods and analyzing and interpreting bioanalytical datasets. The work informs program decisions and involves collaboration with Early-Stage Product Development, Project Management, Clinical Operations, Clinical Development, and other teams. The role executes gene expression assays, molecular biology experiments, ligand binding assays, cell culture activities, histology workflows, and sample processing. It may also contribute to managing assays performed externally at CROs. The Scientist II may support additional assays and workflows, including biobank, safety, and laboratory maintenance activities. The position also requires summarizing experimental data in presentations and datasets, maintaining a current laboratory notebook, and staying informed about literature and scientific developments in gene therapy and bioanalytics. This position reports to the Sr. Director, Biomarkers & Immunology, and supports 4DMT’s mission and portfolio of targeted genetic medicines. Travel is less than 5%.

Requirements

Degree in Immunology, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
PhD in a relevant scientific discipline and 5+ years of industry experience; or a master’s degree and 7–8+ years of industry or related experience; or a bachelor’s degree and 9–11+ years of industry or related experience.
AAV vector experience.
Experience with cell culture and sample preparation.
Experience with PCR, qPCR, droplet digital PCR, RNA-seq, and tissue culture of primary cells and established cell lines.
Bioanalytical and/or biomarker assay development experience.
Working knowledge of clinical pharmacology concepts, including PK/PD, exposure metrics, dose selection, and exposure–response, and experience translating study objectives into bioanalytical strategy, data generation plans, and interpretation for biologics and/or gene therapies.
Molecular biology experience, including qPCR, ddPCR, plasmid and vector construction, molecular cloning, and other nucleic acid manipulations.
Experience with ligand-binding assays and cell-based assays.
Familiarity with ligand-binding assays and LC-MS.
Experience testing large sample sets in an organized and efficient manner.
Ability to adapt to changing priorities and requests.
Excellent communication skills with internal colleagues and external audiences.
Excellent data summary and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute immunogenicity, PK/PD, and biomarker assays for preclinical and clinical use across therapeutic areas including ophthalmology, pulmonology, and CNS.
Execute molecular biology experiments, including nucleic acid work, ddPCR, plasmid and vector construction, and molecular cloning.
Execute ligand-binding and protein assays, including MSD and ELISA.
Perform cell culture activities and sample preparation to support experimental workflows.
Review and interpret bioanalytical datasets for quality, trends, and consistency; summarize findings for study teams and contribute to data summaries.
Prepare histology samples and execute IHC/ISH experiments.
Summarize and present data effectively to internal teams.
Contribute to management of assays performed externally at CROs.
Support other assays and workflows, including biobank, safety, and laboratory maintenance activities.
Maintain an up-to-date laboratory notebook and keep current with relevant literature and scientific knowledge in gene therapy and bioanalytics.