Vesigen Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing novel therapeutics enabled by engineering naturally existing vesicles for delivery. Vesigen’s patented technology, called ARMMs (ARRDC1 Mediated Microvesicles), can be used to precisely deliver a wide range of payloads, including gene editing complexes, proteins, and RNAs in vivo. Our team is committed to leveraging the novel ARMMs technology to develop transformative medicines and address unmet medical needs.
Vesigen is seeking an analytical and highly motivated Scientist to join our Ocular and CNS Drug Discovery team to help drive ophthalmology-centric preclinical programs with the company’s ARMMs technology. This individual will play a significant role in the entire spectrum of the drug discovery process including ideation, target identification & validation, and disease-related biomarkers.
Responsibilities
- Expand, strengthen, and fine-tune our current ocular biodistribution datasets in diverse in vivomodels using multiple routes-of-administration and payloads/modalities. You will conduct routine subretinal/intravitreal surgeries in rodents on-site and manage CROs for specialized surgeries in large animal models.
- Conceptualize, design, and execute experiments independently.
- Maintain accurate experimental records and study reports. Ensure that discovery work and data collection are conducted with utmost attention to quality and ethical standards and, in compliance with regulatory and QC guidelines.
- Routinely implement histology, non-invasive diagnostics, electrophysiology, and behavior assays to assess ocular biodistribution, toxicological outcomes, and efficacy.
- Work closely with colleagues in biology, computational biology, and therapeutic discovery group for design and screening of ARMMs for ocular drug candidates. You will be part of a group effort and help select appropriate assays, and in vitro, ex vivo& in vivo screening criteria. You will participate in the screening campaigns and importantly, help generate high-confidence data that are substantiated by in vivo
- Facilitate and maintain relationships with CROs, external academic groups, and scientific and key opinion leaders. Coordinate study design and execution, manage timelines, and data quality control. Analyze and present findings to various stakeholders.
- Present research findings to the Vesigen Leadership and various stakeholders.
- Attend scientific and industry conferences to engage the broader scientific community.
Qualifications
- PhD. in Ophthalmology/Neuroscience/Neurobiology with relevant surgical experience or a Ph.D. with 2+ years of relevant experience in industry or academia.
- Deep expertise and understanding of degenerative pathophysiology, animal models, and an experience in using these animal models to assess therapeutic outcomes.
- Experience in conducting in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitroexperiments – in ophthalmology using intravitreal and subretinal routes of administration.
- Ability to conduct in vivo studies using rodent model systems. An ideal candidate will demonstrate a deep understanding of comparative ocular anatomy, pathophysiology, proficiency and independence in the laboratory, experience in ocular drug delivery, small animal surgical skills in ophthalmology, and a proven ability to complete ocular drug discovery projects.
- Proficiency in histology (including sections and flatmount preparations of the retina and the RPE), immunohistochemistry, and cell culture is expected. Hands-on experience with confocal imaging, quantitative image analysis, and quantitative RNA in situ hybridization is highly desirable but not an absolute must.
- Demonstratable experience of working independently as well as a member of the team on scientific projects.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to quickly learn and pivot as guided by data. Candidates with a strong background in CNS drug delivery and discovery, surgery, and an understanding of retinal anatomy & physiology are welcome to apply.
Why Vesigen Therapeutics?
We’re as dedicated to delivering the next generation of targeted therapies as we are to building the best team around. Here, you will work alongside talented individuals who share our values and passions. Our office is in Cambridge, MA between Harvard Square and Central Square. We offer a competitive compensation package and comprehensive benefits including:
- High quality medical, dental, and vision insurance options
- Health savings account
- Employer sponsored life and disability insurance
- 401k program
- 15 days of paid time off plus a winter shutdown
- Free parking or public transportation pass
Vesigen Therapeutics is an equal-opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.