Senior Scientist/Associate Director, AAV Biology and Production

Decibel is seeking a qualified scientist with extensive experience in AAV biology and production to establish and lead the company’s internal vector capability. This functional group will be dedicated to the production of research-grade AAV for preclinical experiments and optimization of viral vectors for use in the inner ear. The person working in this position will:

• Establish and lead a high-quality and productive viral vector production team tasked with generating gene delivery tools for the inner ear.
• Provide leadership of and actively contribute to viral vector production, process development, and viral vector analytics.
• Participate hands-on in AAV production and optimization activities.
• Collaborate closely with multiple project teams to prosecute hypotheses and develop novel gene therapies.
• Apply experience with transfection-based AAV process development and train direct reports in these skills as appropriate.
• Evaluate and implement (as needed) emerging technologies in viral vector development and gene therapy.
• Collaborate closely with Pharmaceutical Development scientists to transfer processes and vectors into clinical stage manufacturing.
• Lead and actively contribute to writing of relevant sections of regulatory filings.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in cellular biology, molecular biology, developmental biology, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, synthetic biology, biochemistry, inner ear biology, or related fields; and a minimum of 5 years’ relevant experience in AAV production and purification in mammalian cell systems; or B.S./M.S. with a minimum of 12 years’ relevant experience.
• Expert knowledge of mammalian cell culture, virology, molecular biology, and AAV production.
  Demonstrated excellence in the production of AAV using transfection of HEK293 and downstream purification methods.
• Strong leadership skills and history of training and mentoring junior scientists to create an effective and collaborative team.
• High proficiency in analytics and QC of viral vectors and familiarity with GMP manufacturing requirements for gene therapies.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and interpretation of experimental data.
• Demonstrated ability to lead outsourced process development and manufacturing at Contract Manufacturing Organizations (CMOs).
• Ability to work effectively with both internal and external collaborators across multiple project teams in a highly dynamic environment.
• Ability to make high-level decisions as they relate to the use of viral vector tools in preclinical research.
• Understanding of the biology of the inner ear a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, particularly of complex information and concepts.