Senior Research Associate, Cell & Molecular Biology

Chroma Medicine is pioneering a new class of genomic medicines that harness epigenetics, nature's innate mechanism for gene regulation, to revolutionize treatment of genetically driven disease. Founded by the world's foremost experts in epigenetic editing and protein engineering and backed by industry-leading investors, Chroma is positioned to be the leader in epigenetic editing.

Chroma is working at the cutting edge of precision genomics, building an entirely new class of therapeutics that can precisely and durably control gene expression without changing or cutting the underlying DNA sequence.

We are hiring at our Cambridge, Massachusetts site, offering a unique opportunity to be part of the foundational Chroma team.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with project teams to build, test, and optimize lead candidates for the development of our epigenetic editing platform
• Plan, execute, troubleshoot, and analyze cell-culture based assays that aim to develop novel epigenetic editing capabilities and assess the potency and durability of epigenetic editors
• Apply specialized techniques such as flow cytometry, ELISA, Western blot, and RTqPCR, in the evaluation of candidates
• Use sterile technique to establish and maintain primary and immortalized mammalian cell lines
• Assist in the generation and optimization of written protocols
• Work cross-functionally with Data Sciences, Program Teams and other Payload teams to drive innovation of technology developments and to aid and inform implementation of lead candidates
• Prepare data summaries and present internally to colleagues and upper management
• Train and mentor junior colleagues, ultimately aiding in their professional development
• Maintain lab organization with active use of electronic lab notebooks and inventories
• Contribute positively to the culture of a young company to create a healthy and exciting work environment

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Passion for the development of novel technologies that positively impact human health
• Excellent analytical, problem solving and critical thinking skills, including an ability to combine attention to detail with a big picture perspective
• Detail oriented and self-motivated, with excellent problem solving and organizational skills
• Strong oral and written communication skills with experience presenting scientific research both internally across all levels of the organization and externally to other interested parties
• Adept at prioritizing and managing multiple tasks simultaneously, integrating cross-functional issues, and balancing competing priorities effectively
• Able to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced, innovative, and, at times, uncertain or changing environment while remaining flexible, proactive, and resourceful
• Collaborative and team-oriented mindset with a desire to positively impact a new company's evolving culture

QUALIFICATIONS

• B.S. or M.S. in cell/molecular biology, genetics, or related discipline with 5+ years relevant laboratory experience
• Preference for experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry
• Strong technical expertise in sterile technique, cell culture, lipid transfection, electroporation, cell line development, and gene editing
• Technical expertise in molecular biology techniques, including in vitro transcription of mRNA , [RT]qPCR, ddPCR, ELISA, western blot, DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, and plasmid cloning

PREFERRED SKILLS

• Experience with primary immune cell culture and cytotoxicity, cytokine release, and proliferation assays
• Experience with flow cytometry and FlowJo software
• Experience using statistical packages for data analysis
• Experience with implementation of automation of mid to high-throughput assays
• Epigenetics, chromatin biology, and/or transcriptional regulation knowledge a plus

Chroma Medicine is an equal opportunity employer, providing equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex or gender identity, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Chroma Medicine complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.