Principal Scientist, Vector Biology

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Discovery & Pre-Clinical/Clinical Development

Biological Research

Scientific/Technology

Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America

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We are searching for the best talent for a Principal Scientist, Vector Biology to be in Cambridge, MA.

We are seeking a Principal Scientist to spearhead receptor and viral‑entry biology initiatives that translate mechanistic insight into therapeutic progress. Responsibilities include creating and validating cell‑based assays for receptor localization and ligand/virus binding, dissecting entry pathways, and optimizing lentiviral transduction in coordination with cross‑functional teams.

• Lead and contribute to research focused on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of enveloped virus entry.
• Design and execute experiments to characterize the interactions between viral glycoproteins and host cell receptors.
• Design, develop, and validate robust cell‑based assays probing receptor expression/localization and ligand/virus binding; internalization/endocytosis pathways; functional readouts by flow cytometry, high‑content/fluorescence microscopy, and reporter assays.
• Utilize lentiviral vector systems to study the transduction of target cells and to develop novel gene delivery platforms.
• Establish scalable, reproducible workflows and SOPs; implement assay performance criteria and QC.
• Integrate data with cross‑functional partners (protein/vector engineering, analytics, translational, process/CMC) to inform target selection, vector design, and process improvements.
• Present research findings at internal and external scientific meetings.

• PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Virology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering or related field (or equivalent industry experience)
• 3-6 years of relevant industry experience with a record of leading scientific projects and/or teams.
• Deep hands‑on expertise in mammalian cell culture and cell line engineering.
• Proven track record developing and running quantitative cell‑based assays for membrane proteins/receptors (e.g., flow cytometry panels, internalization assays, high‑content imaging).
• Practical knowledge of viral entry biology (receptor‑ligand interactions; endocytic/internalization mechanisms) and ability to design mechanistic experiments.
• Direct experience with lentiviral vectors and transduction workflows, including assay development and optimization in cell lines and/or primary cells.
• Strong data analysis and scientific communication skills; demonstrated ability to drive decisions with clear, reproducible results.
• Experience with pseudovirus or live‑virus entry/neutralization assays under BSL2/BSL2+ preferred.
• High‑throughput/automated assay development, liquid handling, and/or screening experience a plus.
• Record of publications/patents in receptor biology, viral entry, or vector technologies.

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