AAV Production Senior Research Associate / Associate Scientist
South San Francisco
Development /
On-site
Amber Bio is a biotechnology company pioneering new gene editing modalities using multi-kilobase edits to reach previously undruggable patient populations. Founded by pioneers in the CRISPR field from leading institutions for gene editing research, the company is developing a first-of-its-kind RNA writing platform that can correct thousands of bases at once, thereby correcting genetic mutations safely and reversibly. Multiple openings are available on a rapidly growing team. As an early team member, you will have the opportunity to contribute to strategic planning and future hiring. If you are interested in building a new frontier in genetic medicine, please apply via LinkedIn or through our website (www.amber.bio).
We are seeking a skilled AAV Production Senior Research Associate/Associate Scientist to join our growing team. This role involves leading and executing all aspects of AAV production, with a focus on downstream optimization to enhance viral yield, quality, and consistency. The ideal candidate will bring extensive expertise in AAV production across adherent and suspension cell platforms and demonstrate a proven track record of optimizing protocols for scale-up, purification, and workflow efficiency. This role requires a collaborative spirit and the ability to work across teams to support AAV production and characterization.
Key Responsibilities include the following:
AAV Production and Process Development
- Develop and scale AAV production processes, including IOX gradient purification and affinity column purification, for increased yield and optimized turnaround.
- Perform cell culture for AAV production (adherent and suspension).
- Operate bioreactors, AKTA systems, pumps, mixers, and automated buffer exchange systems to streamline and automate purification workflows.
- Continuously improve purification methods (e.g., AKTA tandem purification) to automate and streamline multi-sample processes.
AAV Characterization and Assay Development
- Run AAV potency, biodistribution, transduction efficiency, and immunofluorescence assays to evaluate AAV performance in mammalian cell lines.
- Perform ddPCR, sequencing, and ELISA-based assays for quantitative and qualitative characterization of AAV vectors, including titer, purity, and genome integrity assessments.
- Conduct in-depth analysis on AAV stability, aggregation, and particle-to-infectivity ratios to refine vector quality and consistency
- Collaborate on optimizing purification and buffer exchange protocols to enhance yield, purity, and formulation stability across multiple AAV serotypes.
- Support upstream cell culture scale-up with a focus on consistent AAV quality and reproducibility for downstream characterization assays.
Inventory, Documentation, and Workflow Management
- Manage lab inventory, ensuring timely ordering of supplies and efficient use of resources.
- Maintain accurate records and data using platforms such as Benchling Workflow; author SOPs, testing summaries, and production batch records.
- Produce AAV lots to support research and preclinical studies, ensuring all production steps meet quality and consistency standards.
Collaboration and Training
- Train and guide team members in AAV production techniques.
- Support viral transduction for in vitro and in vivo applications.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet project goals, and advance novel vectors into pipeline.
- Lead troubleshooting efforts for production challenges and ensure compliance with established protocols.
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelors or Masters in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Virology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
- Experience: 4+ years of hands-on industry experience in AAV production, preferably with both adherent and suspension HEK293 cells. Proven track record in scale-up production and purification processes.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency with AKTA, bioreactors, molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA/protein isolation, cDNA synthesis, RT-PCR, qPCR, digital PCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence).
- Leadership: Demonstrated ability to manage and mentor team members in a production environment.
- Analytical Skills: Strong troubleshooting and optimization skills for viral vector production.
Preference will be given to those who display:
- High motivation, with a strong work ethic and dedication to generating impact
- Attention to detail, with the ability to extract deep insights from data
- Ability to go from ideation to data in an independent fashion
- Long-term personal vision with defined career goals
- High EQ with team-oriented thinking
- Demonstrated excellence in small team environments, including a “no task is too small” attitude
If you have a passion for advancing gene editing technologies and desire to be part of a pioneering biotech company, we encourage you to apply and join our ambitious team.
Please apply directly through LinkedIn or through our website (www.amber.bio).
Amber Bio is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment for all employees.
