Senior Associate Scientist, Viral Vector Cell Line Development

About the role

We are seeking a dedicated Senior Associate Scientist to join our Synthetic Biology team at Asimov on a 6-month contract. The ideal candidate will have extensive hands-on experience in developing stable producer cell lines for AAV and/or lentiviral vectors within an industry setting. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and development efforts focused on gene therapy vectors, working closely with cross-functional teams including synthetic biology and process development. The successful candidate will be responsible for executing complex cell line development workflows, supporting innovation in vector production processes, and helping to improve the quality attributes of viral therapeutics such as potency, purity, and cell targeting. This position provides a chance to work at a nimble, forward-thinking synthetic biology startup committed to advancing biological engineering and creating next-generation therapeutics.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Conduct the development of stable producer cell lines for AAV and/or lentiviral vectors, including performing transfections, cloning, and cell banking procedures using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.
• Perform biological assays such as droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and flow cytometry to evaluate cell line performance, vector titers, and product quality.
• Support the development and implementation of innovative workflows and applications aimed at improving vector production efficiency, consistency, and scalability.
• Participate in research projects focused on creating viral vector therapeutics with enhanced quality attributes, including optimizing the empty/full capsid ratio, increasing potency, and improving cell targeting capabilities.
• Work collaboratively with synthetic biology and process development teams to troubleshoot issues, optimize protocols, and develop new methodologies for viral vector production.
• Design experiments, analyze data, troubleshoot technical challenges, and maintain detailed documentation of all activities to ensure reproducibility and compliance.
• Represent the cell line development function on project teams, communicating results, progress, and future plans clearly to stakeholders.
• Support the generation of stable producer cell lines suitable for both research and therapeutic applications, ensuring they meet quality and regulatory standards.
• Contribute to process optimization efforts to improve yield, quality, and cost-effectiveness of vector manufacturing.
• Assist in scaling up cell line production processes and preparing documentation for regulatory submissions when applicable.
• Collaborate with quality assurance and regulatory teams to ensure compliance with GMP standards, especially when working towards clinical-grade vector production.
• Support the development of assays and analytical methods to characterize viral vectors and cell lines, ensuring they meet required specifications.
• Stay current with advances in viral vector technology, cell line development, and related fields to incorporate best practices into workflows.
• Participate in team meetings, provide technical guidance, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Maintain a safe working environment by adhering to laboratory safety protocols and regulatory guidelines.
• Support knowledge sharing within the team through documentation, presentations, and training sessions as needed.
• Contribute to the overall mission of the company by helping to develop next-generation gene therapies and advancing the field of synthetic biology.

Requirements

• B.S. or M.S. in Biological Engineering, Virology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in developing AAV and/or lentiviral vector producer cell lines within an industry setting.
• Proven expertise in performing transfections, viral transductions, and cell culture techniques necessary for vector production.
• Experience with biological assays such as ddPCR, qPCR, ELISA, and flow cytometry to evaluate vector titers, gene expression, and cell health.
• Knowledge of viral genome engineering and host cell genome engineering related to virus production is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with GMP manufacturing processes and quality standards for gene therapy vectors.
• Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to optimize complex workflows.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to document procedures and present findings clearly.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment, managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Experience working with viral vectors for therapeutic applications, especially in a regulated environment, is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to evolving project needs and incorporate new techniques into workflows.
• Knowledge of cell banking, bioprocessing, and scale-up processes is advantageous.
• Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols and regulatory compliance requirements.

Nice to have

• Experience with process development for viral vector manufacturing at scale.
• Knowledge of synthetic biology tools and platforms relevant to vector development.
• Prior involvement in research projects aimed at improving vector quality attributes such as potency, purity, and stability.
• Experience with analytical method development for vector characterization.
• Understanding of regulatory pathways and documentation requirements for gene therapy products.
• Exposure to ITAR regulations and handling of sensitive biological materials.

Skills & tools

• Cell culture and transfection techniques for mammalian cells.
• Viral vector production and titration.
• Flow cytometry and cell analysis.
• ddPCR, qPCR, and ELISA for gene and protein quantification.
• Data analysis, troubleshooting, and experimental design.
• Laboratory safety and compliance protocols.
• Documentation and record-keeping in regulated environments.
• Use of laboratory equipment such as biosafety cabinets, incubators, centrifuges, and spectrophotometers.

Practical notes

This is a full-time, 6-month contract position providing maternity leave coverage. The role is based on-site in Boston, MA, and involves hands-on laboratory work supporting viral vector development for therapeutic applications. While the position is temporary, there may be opportunities for extension or transition to a permanent role depending on business needs. The candidate must be comfortable working in a regulated environment and adhering to GMP standards when applicable. The position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to innovative gene therapy projects at a dynamic startup dedicated to advancing synthetic biology and biological engineering. The successful candidate will join a collaborative team committed to scientific excellence, continuous learning, and impactful innovation in the field of gene therapy.