Research Associate, Animal
About Avista Therapeutics
Avista Therapeutics is a preclinical biotechnology company backed by UPMC Enterprises and based in Pittsburgh, PA whose mission is to develop innovative gene therapies for retinal diseases, including rare ophthalmic conditions that have a profound impact on quality of life. We leverage our computationally guided scAAVengr platform to generate and validate a toolkit of proprietary AAV vectors. Our quantitative in vivo-based approach and clinical ophthalmology expertise allow us to rapidly translate new gene therapies to the clinic.
About the Role
As a Research Associate, you will join the R&D team to develop and assess the efficacy of newly designed AAVs to treat retinal diseases. The ideal candidate will have a background working with large animals and conducting experiments involving immunohistochemistry, protein expression, and molecular biology. Job duties will involve working closely with animals and animal tissue and conducting protein- and molecular-based assays from cell lines and animal tissue. The candidate must be adaptable and eager to take on new projects and have a propensity to work well in an interdisciplinary team environment.
Job Responsibilities
Execute experiments using a combination of biochemical, molecular and systems techniques
Conduct experiments using animal models and collect and dissect animal tissues
Coordinate with animal facility staff and wet lab team
Contribute to the functioning of a well-organized and clean lab environment
Collaborate with wet lab and computational scientists to identify sequencing needs and determine best plan of action
Prepare scientific progress reports for internal and external distribution
Keep detailed records in an electronic lab notebook
Qualifications
A Bachelor's degree and three years of professional experience or a Master's degree (Master's degree preferred) in Molecular Biology, Neurobiology, Genetics, or a related field
3+ years of relevant lab/work experience
Experience working with rodents, primates, or other large animals
Experience dissecting and preparing tissue samples
Tissue sectioning experience (sectioning with vibratome and/or cryostat)
Experience with biochemistry techniques such as immunohistochemistry and Western blotting
Fluorescent microscopy and molecular biology skills are a plus
Organized and detail oriented
Strong communication skills
Comfortable in a dynamic startup environment
Compensation and Benefits
We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including stock options, medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance and PTO.
Avista Therapeutics is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, pregnancy, marital or partnership status, familial status, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, HIV status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by appropriate federal, state, or local laws.