Postdoctoral Scientist

Postdoctoral Scientist

United States - California - Oceanside Process/Product Development & Operations Fixed Term

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist with a molecular virology or immunology background to undertake an exciting research project for viral vector design, production, and characterization supporting Gilead Biologics’ pipeline in the area of infectious diseases, including HIV, HBV, and HDV. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and executing in vitro experiments to generate viral particles, pseudo‑typed viruses, targeted lipid nanoparticles (LNP), and for developing cell‑based assays to evaluate their infectivity and neutralizing activity of biological drug candidates such as monoclonal antibodies, peptides, and viral vaccines.

Specific Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and team‑based projects for design, optimization, and production of viral particles, viral vectors, pseudo viruses, and lipid nanoparticles.
• Engage cross‑functionally with discovery virology teams, biophysical and structural characterization teams to develop cell‑based infectivity assays and biophysical characterization methods for viral particle characterization.
• Develop and optimize transfection protocols for stable cell line engineering, viral vector production process/workflow, and scale‑up.
• Require an in‑depth knowledge of molecular biology, virology, and/or immunology. The candidate will be expected to demonstrate technical competence for plasmid design, cell line engineering, cell‑based viral infection assays, and flow cytometry techniques.
• Effectively communicate ideas, project goals, and results to team members across cross‑functional roles/departments.
• Be self‑motivated and organized, familiar with the relevant literature, and enjoy scientific investigation and thinking, proactively identifying issues and developing solutions in a collaborative multidisciplinary environment.

Required Skills

• PhD in Molecular Virology, Immunology, or a related scientific discipline with 0‑2 years of relevant experience in the Pharmaceutical or Biotechnology industry.
• Excellent communication skills and interpersonal skills are required. Must be able to participate in highly effective teams, organizing and implementing complex research plans.
• Demonstrates technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaboration with others, and independent thought in suggesting experimental design.