Senior Scientist, Oligonucleotide In Vitro Cell Biologist

Neurodegenerative diseases are one of the largest medical challenges of our time. Denali Therapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing breakthrough therapies for neurodegenerative diseases through our deep commitment to degeneration biology and principles of translational medicine. Denali is founded on the collaboration of leading scientists, industry experts, and investors who share the vision that scientific discovery energetically applied to translational medicine is the key to delivering effective therapies to patients.

This position will support in vitro screening assays to enable the discovery of oligonucleotide-based therapeutics using our Oligonucleotide Transport Vehicle (OTV) platforms. This position contributes to multiple programs across our portfolio as we tackle a range of therapeutic drug targets.

Key Accountabilities/ Core Job Responsibilities:

• Develop, validate and execute robust HT oligo-based in-vitro screening assays for hit-to-lead identification to support oligo-based drug discovery projects (e.g. 384 well RNA isolation, qPCR, westerns, ELISA, Sequencing, imaging and others)

• Develop, advanced cell-based screening techniques by incorporating primary cells, iPSC-derived models, ex vivo systems, and engineered cell lines enhancing precision of therapeutic targeting

• Generate high-fidelity screening data to train AI/ML potency prediction and SAR relationships with new chemical modifications

• Continually optimize and validate new biological assays for oligo transport vehicles (OTV) to drive identification and characterization of superior oligonucleotide therapeutics at Denali

• Serve as oligonucleotide biology representative in project team meetings and discussions

• Analyze and interpret complex data, effectively document and communicate results to project teams and provide recommendations

• Develop protocols, maintain ELN, and regularly review literature to maintain knowledge of scientific trends and new technologies

• Actively participate in interdisciplinary research collaborations with Denali scientists and other leading academic and industrial research groups to advance therapeutic programs through our discovery pipeline

• Contribute to the growth and management of our internal oligonucleotide research capabilities

• Establish and manage activities at partner contract research organizations

Qualifications/Skills:

• Ph.D. in molecular or cell biology with 3 years+ of biotech/biopharma experience, or MS with 8 years+ of relevant experience, or BS with 10 years+ of relevant experience

• A deep understanding in oligonucleotide-based activity screening techniques and cell biology

• Rapidly adapt, pivot, and investigate the biology of expansion targets across diverse disease areas

• Expert in deploying diverse biotechnological tools, including CRISPR, FACS, and high-content imaging, complemented by robust proficiency in computational tools for data analysis and genetic sequencing

• A record of scientific leadership and innovation as demonstrated by publications and patents

• Maintain a high level of integrity while balancing multiple priorities and responsibilities

• Must be a committed team player prepared to work in and embrace a team-based culture

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to plan and achieve research goals in an organizationally diverse research environment

• Highly skilled in fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, steering project strategies, and mentoring emerging scientists

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with a team

• Highly organized with the ability to effectively prioritize individual and group tasks

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

Salary Range: $147,000.00 to $191,000.00 .  Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience. Denali offers a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401k, healthcare coverage, ESPP and a broad range of other benefits. Learn more at https://www.denalitherapeutics.com/careers

This compensation and benefits information is based on Denali’s good faith estimate as of the date of publication and may be modified in the future.
 

Denali is committed to its core company value of unity by creating a diverse and inclusive environment. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, basis of disability, or any other federal, state, or local protected class.