Senior Scientist, Viral Vectors

Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine • Cambridge, MA

3d • $109,000 - $174,800 • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced scientist to join our CAR-T cell therapy discovery efforts as a Senior Scientist. In this role, you will play a key part in advancing our research initiatives by leveraging your expertise in viral vectors and molecular biology. This position presents a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in CAR-T cell therapy. If you are passionate about advancing scientific discovery and possess a collaborative mindset, we invite you to apply!

Requirements

• Ph.D. in a relevant field (e.g. Pharmaceutical Science, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, etc.) with 1-2 years of relevant experience OR a Master’s or Bachelor’s degree with extensive experience.
• Significant experience in enveloped viruses and viral vector production, analytical testing, and characterization.
• Experience with lentiviral vectors required.
• Demonstrated rigor in assay development and data analysis.
• Strong knowledge of molecular/cell biology techniques, cell culture, and flow cytometry.
• Highly organized and meticulous, with the ability to handle and pursue multiple projects in parallel with a high degree of autonomy.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills to develop creative, innovative solutions and meet project objectives.
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to operate effectively within a team environment.
• Experience in maintaining accurate and detailed records of experimental procedures, data, and results in a well-organized electronic lab notebook to ensure reproducibility and accessibility for team members.
• Excellent presentation, verbal communication, and scientific/technical writing skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with high throughput assays, techniques, and workflows preferred.

Responsibilities

• Utilize your extensive knowledge in vector generation & testing, virology, and molecular biology to contribute meaningfully to our cell therapy platform and pipeline development.
• Conduct viral vector screening, optimize vector packaging and production, and perform analytical quantification of viral vector particles using relevant assessments including protein and PCR-based assays, particle potency testing via flow cytometry, and vector copy number (VCN) analysis.
• Play a key role in the development of innovative vector analytical and characterization assays.
• Leverage your familiarity with automation platforms to scale viral vector production, analytical testing, and cell-based activity measurements.
• Contribute to optimization efforts focused on increasing viral titers and purity to enhance the overall efficiency of production processes.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to test viral vector designs, ensuring the delivery of reliable and consistent data.
• Present data to research and cross-functional teams.
• Stay informed about industry developments, continuously learn, and thrive in a fast-paced team environment.
• Deliver results in alignment with project timelines while maintaining accountability for your work.
• Ensure compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) protocols.

Benefits

• Vacation –120 hours per calendar year
• Sick time - 40 hours per calendar year; for employees who reside in the State of Colorado –48 hours per calendar year; for employees who reside in the State of Washington –56 hours per calendar year
• Holiday pay, including Floating Holidays –13 days per calendar year
• Work, Personal and Family Time - up to 40 hours per calendar year
• Parental Leave – 480 hours within one year of the birth/adoption/foster care of a child
• Bereavement Leave – 240 hours for an immediate family member: 40 hours for an extended family member per calendar year
• Caregiver Leave – 80 hours in a 52-week rolling period
• Volunteer Leave – 32 hours per calendar year
• Military Spouse Time-Off – 80 hours per calendar year

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree