Senior Research Associate - Target Validation & Exploratory Neurobiology

Who We Are

Verge Genomics is a next-generation biopharmaceutical start-up using human genomics to accelerate development of life-saving treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. Our platform uses patient tissue profiling, human genetics, and machine learning to identify new therapeutic gene targets, predict effective drugs, and stratify patient subpopulations for increased clinical success. Verge's approach offers a breakthrough opportunity to identify drugs that dramatically improve patient outcomes and fundamentally lower the cost curve of pharmaceutical development.

The Target Validation and Exploratory Biology team is seeking a creative and driven (Senior) Research Associate. In this position, you will be investigating the biology of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. You will implement functional genomics technologies, pharmacological modulation and phenotypic assays to explore gene function in disease-relevant brain cell models. You will make important contributions to our mission by validating novel genetic targets to fill and sustain Verge's therapeutic pipeline.

*Will sponsor work authorizations to be able to work in the US.*

You Will

• Develop and execute cell based phenotypic assays based on high content imaging, genomics and proteomics approaches
• Validate targets using RNAi, CRISPR technology and pharmacological tools
• Maintain cell cultures, with a focus on human iPSC-derived brain cells (neuron, astrocyte, microglia) and fibroblast models derived from patients
• Analyze data using relevant statistical methods and software
• Write protocols and SOPs
• Maintain reliable electronic records of experiments conducted
• Present results in team and company meetings

You Will Have

• A BS + 5 years or MS + 3 years degree, preferably in neuroscience or cell-molecular biology, or a related scientific discipline with a passion for bench-focused research
• Experience with mammalian (primary) cell culture is a must, experience working with CNS cell types is a plus
• Proficient in cell-based assay development and execution (knowledge of best practices in assay design principles)
• Experience with genomic technologies (RNAi, CRISPR) and drug testing approaches
• Proficient in molecular biology techniques (e.g., RNA isolation, qPCR, and Western blots)
• Immunocytochemistry and fluorescence microscopy
• Experience in image analysis is a plus
• Experience with 96-well plate assay formats is a plus
• Experience working with Lentiviruses is a plus
• Data analysis using GraphPad Prism, SPSS, SAS, and Excel, and a general knowledge of statistical analysis
• Good communication skills and ability to collaborate in cross-functional group settings