Senior Scientist - Nucleic Acids Payload Engineering

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Genentech's Genetic Medicine Technology department in San Diego is looking for a talented and driven Senior Scientist to become part of our Nucleic Acids Payload Engineering group. In this role, you will lead efforts to further develop our non‑viral gene delivery platform.

• Lead the discovery and development of novel modalities through molecular and genetic engineering to improve nuclear delivery of donor DNA cargo for our proprietary Super Piggy Bac transposase‑based gene insertion system.
• Advance our non‑viral gene delivery platform through hands‑on laboratory work, spearheading the conceptualization and evaluation of novel strategies for nuclear shuttling of DNA.
• Direct and perform rigorous research‑focused projects utilizing both hypothesis testing and screening methodologies, moving initiatives toward critical feasibility and proof‑of‑concept milestones to be incorporated into our in‑vivo cell and gene therapy portfolios aimed at treating cancer, autoimmune conditions, and rare hematological disorders.
• Collaborate extensively with the Non‑viral Nanotechnology and Cellular & Molecular Pharmacology teams, and with internal specialists to convert research‑derived data into practical clinical and drug discovery frameworks.

A Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Innate Immunology, or a related field is required, along with a minimum of 2 years of experience as a post‑doc in an academic setting or post‑Ph.D. in the biopharma industry.

Demonstrated proficiency with high‑throughput library screening in mammalian cell systems.

Expertise in advanced nucleic acid manipulation and molecular cloning methods, such as IVT, mammalian expression vector design, library design & cloning, Golden Gate cloning, SDM, and Gibson assembly.

Hands‑on skills with functional molecular assays, including Western blot, reporter assays, ddPCR, or qRT‑PCR, to evaluate transgene delivery.

Self‑starting mindset, passion for solving scientific problems, highly collaborative approach, and exceptional creative drive.

• Familiarity with Next‑Generation Sequencing (NGS) is highly advantageous.
• Experience working with primary cells and cell lines (specifically hepatocytes, T cells and monocytes/macrophages).

Relocation benefits are available for this position.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of San Diego, CA is $108,100 – $200,700. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job‑related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance.

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

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