Principal Scientist, Discovery BioSciences Genomics, Oncology TRC

This position is heavily focused on wet lab work, contributing to cutting-edge research projects aimed at understanding cancer biology, identifying novel drug targets, and developing new therapeutic approaches. The role includes implementing and running advanced genomics technologies (such as single-cell RNA seq, spatial transcriptomics, NGS workflows) and functional genomics assays (CRISPR screening, model engineering, novel screening modalities) to support projects in multiple areas including target identification and validation, and translational research in a cross-functional environment with minimal supervision.

Position Responsibilities

• Conduct full-time laboratory-based research supporting target identification, oncology drug discovery with minimal supervision
• Take initiative in experimental design, development and optimization of genomics and functional assays to evaluate therapeutic candidates and decipher mechanism of action
• Implement and execute novel genomic assays, such as single-cell RNA-seq, spatial transcriptomics, and functional genomics screening strategies
• Manage and support various research projects and collaborations across the early oncology portfolio, asset progression and translational research space
• Run and/or supervise standard NGS workflows and assays
• Collaborate cross-functionally to support the Oncology portfolio, working closely with Discovery Biology, Predictive Sciences, Computational Genomics and other functional area groups
• Communicate project updates and results, maintain accurate ELN/LIMS documentation, analyze and interpret experimental data, and present findings contributing to the preparation of technical reports, publications, and presentations
• Train and assist other team and site members, working collaboratively in a matrixed environment

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree 8+ years of academic and / or industry experience
• Or Master’s Degree 6+ years of academic and / or industry experience
• Or Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in the Life Sciences 4+ years of academic and / or industry experience

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD with 4+ years of relevant experience with a strong scientific mindset and a solid foundation for the application of novel genomics, functional genomics, and spatial technologies
• Extensive hands-on experience with advanced genomics technologies, including single-cell RNA-seq, spatial transcriptomics (10x Visium HD, Bruker CosMx, 10x Xenium), RNA-seq, WGS, WES, qPCR, dPCR, custom RNA/DNA isolation, NGS library construction and sequencing, high-throughput molecular assays, automation, data analysis, and data interpretation
• Strong experience developing and applying gene perturbation and functional genomics methods, including CRISPR-mediated genome editing and screening, siRNA/shRNA knockdown, nucleofection, and lentiviral delivery
• Proven track record designing, developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting molecular and cellular assays and innovative methodologies
• Strong foundation with broad experience applying genomic and functional genomic approaches to understand disease biology, identify and validate targets, and support biomarker discovery. Cancer biology experience preferred but not required
• Hands-on experience with cellular and molecular biology techniques, including 2D and 3D cell culture, complex cellular models, organoids, immune and stromal cell co-cultures, high-content imaging, flow cytometry, cell proliferation and reporter assays, molecular cloning, western blotting, immunoprecipitation, ELISA, MSD, and proteomics
• Experience with cancer model development, in vivo studies, donor sample handling, FFPE and clinical samples, and cell separation technologies such as FACS and microfluidics
• Familiarity with large-scale oncology datasets such as DepMap, cBioPortal, and TCGA to generate and test hypotheses
• Proficiency in data analysis software such as GraphPad Prism and FlowJo, with familiarity in bioinformatics, AI, and machine-learning approaches for genomics and spatial transcriptomics
• Strong communication skills and demonstrated ability to work effectively and manage collaborations across multiple groups in a highly collaborative environment
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with familiarity using Jira, LIMS, Confluence, or other project-management solutions