Gene Editing Scientist

Job description

The candidate will join the Functional Genomics Group, within Translational Platform department of Discovery Science, to develop and implement cutting-edge approaches using gene editing tools to support the identification of small and large molecule therapeutics for disease indications, including Oncology, Immunology, Infectious Diseases, Neuroscience, and Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases. S/he will work in an exciting, interdisciplinary environment, overlapping the different stages of the discovery pipeline, by interacting with several internal and external groups. The candidate should be highly self-motivated and has experience managing a team of associate level staff. Responsibilities for the candidate include, design and execution of cellular experiments and screens using shRNA, CRISPR/Cas9, and other functional genomics tools for target identification, MOA characterization, and mechanisms of resistance and/or sensitivity to small and large molecules. The candidate is expected to be able to critically analyze their data and troubleshooting skills will be essential. S/he should demonstrate a sense of urgency, be organized and adhere to sensitive timelines.

Primary responsibilities (include, but are not limited to):
· Supervise and guide junior research associates and work study students
· Design and perform cellular and molecular experiments and assays.
· Ability to perform proper tissue culture is a must. Cellular and molecular biology techniques include: transfections, transductions, RNAi and CRISPR/Cas9, microscopy, immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry, RTQ-PCR, western blotting, immunoprecipitation etc.
· Experience with pooled genome scale functional genomics screens in vitro or in vivo and cell line engineering is strongly desired.
· Interpret, troubleshoot and report on complex data. Basic statistical knowledge is mandatory.
· Keep up-to-date on literature related to his/her field. Act as an expert resource in her/his scientific field and related disciplines. Propose novel and actionable assay ideas, aligned with internal and external scientific strategies and demands
· Manage multiple experiments and projects simultaneously
· Collaborate with stakeholders and business partners from all relevant functions and contribute to various projects within the organization
· Communicate in a clear and professional manner, both in writing and orally
· Present data in professional 'publication ready' format
· Initiate and maintain external collaborations (e.g. with contract research organizations and academics)
· Strong capabilities to collaborate with scientists in multiple disciplines.

Desired profile

Qualifications :

Ph.D. degree or equivalent, with several years of productive post-doctoral experience in a high-quality academic, biotech or pharmaceutical environment.

Related Experience:

Drug discovery experience in a biotech or pharmaceutical environment is a plus.

Personal skills and Competencies:
·  Strong management skills and ability to interact with junior team members in constructive and productive ways
·  Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to interact effectively with people, internally and externally
·  Demonstrates creativity and novel approaches to solving scientific problems
·  Intellectually curious and well-informed on the latest scientific advances in the field
·  Strong record of publications
·  Detail-oriented, with excellent record-keeping skills
·  Excellent oral and written communication skills. Able to effectively present scientific data and concepts to international standards.

Primary Location
Europe/Belgium-Antwerp-Beerse
Organization
Janssen Pharmaceutica N.V. (7555)