Research Associate, Biology

Research Associate, Biology at Casma Therapeutics

Casma Therapeutics is harnessing autophagy by developing a novel degradation technology to open new target areas for drug discovery and development that will profoundly impact the lives of patients. Autophagy is a conserved cellular process that contributes to overall organismal health, but when autophagy is perturbed, inefficient autophagic flux contributes to numerous diseases. By selectively boosting autophagy, Casma expects to be able to arrest or reverse the progression of several diseases such as neurodegeneration, metabolic disorders, inflammation, and muscle degeneration. Casma was launched in 2018 by Third Rock Ventures and recently completed a Series B financing led by The Column Group with participation by new investors Eventide and Schroeder Adveq.

The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated, Senior Research Associate/Associate Scientist Associate to participate in drug discovery programs that lead to the identification of new targets and drug candidates for clinical development. The individual should possess strong core competencies in cell biology, molecular biology, assay development. We are seeking a qualified candidate who will share our excitement about the science, contribute to our culture, and honor our commitment to patients.

Responsibilities

• Create impact for lead Casma programs by developing plate-based assays using flow cytometry and multimode plate-based reader systems.
• Conduct cell culture and cell line development using retro- and lenti-virus, and CRISPR technologies.
• Utilize instrumentation and robotics to aid in high throughput (384-well) methodologies.
• Develop an understanding of the autophagy pathway to independently drive experiments.
• Independently interpret data, recommend next steps, and engage colleagues for advice/questions.
• Actively participate on a dynamic and collaborative team focused on patient outcomes.
• Demonstrate the ability to take the lead and prioritize sensitive projects.
• Write detailed protocols and effectively troubleshoot issues in order to partner with CROs.

Requirements + Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology or related discipline plus 1 year of experience conducting high quality science in an industry setting
• Proficient in mammalian cell culture techniques such as microscopy, antibiotic selection, clonal cell isolation, transfection, infection, virus preparation, and cell line generation
• Experience with plate-based assay (e.g., Luciferase, AlphaLISA, HTRF, MSD, ELISA, etc.)
• Experience incorporating lab automation and liquid handling systems to increase assay throughput
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to successfully participate in a highly creative and enthusiastic start-up environment
• Exemplify a patient-first focus, courage, integrity, drive, and respect for all team members

Additional preferred skills

• Expertise in high content imaging and analysis is a plus

Company Values + Culture

Courage to listen, learn, lead, Awesome science, Strength through collaboration,

Medical breakthroughs for patients, Always do the right thing

We have created and are sustaining a creative scientific culture where we recognize and reward our "Casmaniacs" for exemplifying our Core Values, and we accelerate our professional growth through coaching, development, and frequent feedback. Our plan of nurturing the fiercest, most talented and diverse Casmaniacs is coming to fruition before our very eyes.

Casmaniacs are provided competitive salaries, stock options, bonus eligibility, and excellent benefits including health, dental and vision insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, 401(k), unlimited vacation, generous parental leave, commuter reimbursement, professional development, philanthropic opportunities, and most importantly a sense of community.

Casma provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, disability, pregnancy or conditions related to pregnancy, or genetics.

29 Newbury Street
3rd Floor
Boston, MA 02116
P (617) 585-2000