Associate Scientist, Cellular and Molecular Biology
ASSOCIATE SCIENTIST,
CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
ABOUT THE COMPANY
Aurora Therapeutics is transforming the development and approval of personalized gene-editing therapies for patients with rare diseases. The company utilizes advanced CRISPR technologies alongside innovative regulatory and manufacturing frameworks to streamline the path for multiple mutation-specific treatments. Aurora's innovative approach overcomes traditional barriers to delivering therapies for rare mutations, enabling CRISPR treatments to serve larger patient populations. For more details, visit auroratherapeutics.com.
Aurora was founded by Jennifer Doudna, Ph.D., CRISPR co-inventor and Nobel Laureate, and Fyodor Urnov, Ph.D., a leader in translating genome-editing science into human therapeutics. Our experienced leadership team led by Edward M. Kaye, M.D., brings deep expertise in both gene editing and clinical development.
THE OPPORTUNITY
Aurora is expanding our research team and seeking an Associate Scientist in Cellular and Molecular Biology. We're looking for a motivated scientist to join our team and contribute directly to advancing our first therapeutic program. This is an opportunity to make meaningful contributions at a critical stage of our pipeline development.
This is a full-time, on-site role for an Associate Scientist in Bioanalytical Sciences, based in Cambridge, MA.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Perform cell and tissue culture to support gRNA screening, base editor optimization, and target validation studies
Design and execute gRNA and base editor screening campaigns using relevant cell models, including primary cells
Prepare NGS libraries for editing quantification (amplicon sequencing, GUIDE-seq, or similar); manage sample submission and coordinate with sequencing providers
Analyze NGS data to assess on-target editing efficiency, indel profiles, and off-target activity; generate clear reports and visualizations for project teams
Support target identification and validation efforts through literature review, database mining, and experimental follow-up
Maintain rigorous electronic lab notebooks, sample inventories, and data documentation
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
B.S. with 5+ years or M.S. with 3+ years of relevant laboratory experience in molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, or a related discipline
Strong technical expertise in molecular biology techniques, including RT-qPCR/-ddPCR, DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, plasmid cloning, ELISA/MSD
Strong cell culture expertise including sterile technique, transfection/nucleofection, cell line engineering, and maintenance of multiple cell lines; primary cell experience preferred
Hands-on experience with CRISPR-based gene editing (Cas9, base editors, or prime editors)
Proficiency in NGS library preparation and familiarity with Illumina sequencing workflows
Strong organizational skills with meticulous attention to data integrity and documentation
Preferred:
Biotech or pharmaceutical industry experience, particularly in LNP-based in vivo gene editing therapeutics
Experience with high-throughput screening workflows (arrayed or pooled formats)
Familiarity with off-target analysis methods (ONE-Seq, CHANGE-seq, GUIDE-seq, CIRCLE-seq, rhAmpSeq, or in silico prediction tools)
To apply, submit your resume/CV and cover letter to careers@auroratherapeutics.com
Aurora is an equal opportunity employer, providing equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex or gender identity, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Aurora complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.