Science Team Lead – Cellular Reprogramming

About us

e184 is a biotechnology research company advancing in vitro gametogenesis to transform reproductive medicine. We are developing integrated platforms that combine cellular reprogramming, machine learning-guided optimization, multi-omics analysis, and automated experimental workflows to enable gamete development for individuals facing reproductive challenges. We are assembling interdisciplinary teams across cell and molecular engineering, synthetic biology, epigenetic editing, bioinformatics and computational biology to tackle one of biology’s most impactful problems - returning the fundamental right to procreate.

We are seeking a Science Team Lead to drive our innovative research program, developing novel approaches to cellular fate conversion through transcription factor-mediated reprogramming. This is a leadership position reporting directly to the Chief Scientific Officer (CSO).

The successful candidate will guide scientific planning, supervise project execution, contribute to team building, and shape the long-term R&D roadmap.

This is a hands‑on role
: in addition to team leadership and project management, the candidate will be directly involved in designing and conducting experiments
, especially in the early stages of the program.

• Lead a focused research team of 4-6 scientists and report directly to the CSO
• Design and personally conduct hands‑on research in cellular reprogramming, high-throughput screening, and cell cycle manipulation
• Develop and optimize reporter cell line platforms with integrated fluorescent markers for cellular state transitions
• Establish large-scale screening protocols using CRISPRa and transposon-based transcription factor libraries
• Design and execute pooled genetic screens to identify factor combinations driving targeted cellular conversions
• Supervise validation studies for cellular reprogramming candidates using cytological and molecular approaches
• Implement high-content imaging systems for phenotype detection and validation
• Define research approaches and priorities aligned with company objectives
• Drive scientific output, IP development, and milestone achievement within established timelines

• PhD in Cell Biology
  , Molecular Biology
  , Synthetic Biology
  , or related field
• Minimum 5 years postdoctoral or industry experience in directed cell fate conversion and high-throughput genetic screening
• Demonstrated expertise in reporter cell line development and validation
• Technical proficiency in pooled genetic screening methodologies (CRISPRa, library construction, barcode analysis)
• Experience with flow cytometry, FACS, and high-content imaging systems
• Strong background in cell cycle regulation, chromosome imaging, and cytological analysis
• Proven ability to design and execute complex multi-parameter screening experiments
• Experience leading research teams while maintaining significant hands‑on involvement

• Experience with single-cell library preparation techniques (scRNA‑seq, scATAC‑seq) and computational analysis of single-cell sequencing data including quality control, normalization, dimensionality reduction, and trajectory inference
• Expertise in probabilistic models or deep learning approaches for analyzing transcription factor‑target gene regulatory networks and predicting combinatorial transcription factor effects on cell fate specification
• Track record of integrating experimental and computational approaches to cellular reprogramming with publications in high-impact journals and experience in IP development

• On‑site work in the US Pacific Northwest in state‑of‑the‑art facility
• Competitive compensation, equity participation, and comprehensive benefits
• Collaborative and supportive culture with mission‑driven colleagues focused on breakthrough discoveries
• Rare opportunity to lead the development of cutting‑edge cellular reprogramming technologies with applications in reproductive medicine

The above job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required. Responsibilities and duties may change or be adjusted to meet the needs of the company, and additional duties may be assigned as necessary.

The job description is subject to change at any time at the discretion of e184.