Job Description

Job Summary:
The Wyss Institute is seeking a Scientist II to drive a discovery effort that combines genetic (e.g., CRISPR or shRNA-based) and small molecule screening with human Organ Chips. The goal is to identify therapeutic targets and candidate drugs that mitigate injury or accelerate healing after ionizing radiation exposure. While effective radiation countermeasures are needed for medical and military defense situations, there are few FDA-approved drugs for this indication. We are aiming to add to that list. This is an important role in a fast-paced multi-year translational and collaborative project that spans the lung, intestine, bone marrow, and immune Organ Chips.

About Us:
The Wyss Institute’s mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the imagination of academia and the focus of industry to translate ground- breaking technologies into commercial products that solve big problems. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don’t fund because they view it as too risky. We prefer to use the word “challenging,” and we love challenges. For more information discover our technologies, catch up on our recent news, or watch our latest videos.

About You:
You are a collaborative, impact-focused problem solver who wants be a part of a dynamic team dedicated to creating and commercializing novel approaches to improve medicine and address global challenges in healthcare, sustainability, and industry. You want the opportunity to explore your scientific and medical interests and to apply your knowledge to tackle ambitious projects in a fast-paced entrepreneurial- minded environment with resources and support from top-notch scientific, operations and administrative professionals. You enjoy working with diverse groups of people and leveraging your own expertise to create innovations that can change the world.

About the Role:
Reporting to the Senior Scientist II, you will contribute to the discovery effort that combines genetic and small molecule screening with human Organ Chips. As a member of the Advanced Technology team, you will be exposed to many different technologies in areas ranging from therapeutics and diagnostics to synthetic biology and material science, with the goal of identifying new product solutions and the unique potential opportunity to follow your passion either at the Institute or as a future co-founder of a Wyss start-up.

What you'll do:
Independently plan and execute experiments that advance radiation countermeasure discovery efforts; Independently troubleshoots technical issues and coaches others in problem solving
Analyze, interpret, and present data at internal + external meetings; Provides technical and strategic feedback in project teams and supports rigorous data discussions.
Summarize findings and collaboratively assemble reports; leads the authoring of subsections of grant applications and publications; May lead subsections of applications for new projects.
Mentor lab colleagues, including research assistants, students, and postdocs
Propose and investigate opportunities to translate organ chip technology and the knowledge gained during countermeasure discovery to other areas of medical need
Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness through actions, interactions, and communications with others.

What you'll need:
Bachelor's degree in biology, chemical biology, or medicine-related field;
A minimum of 5 years of experience with cell or molecular biology; Education may count towards years of experience.
Prior experience executing genetic screens (e.g., CRISPR or shRNA) or small molecule screens for a biologic readout

Desirable Skills
Advanced degree strongly preferred
Primary human cell culture expertise (epithelial or hematopoietic/immune cells)
Flow cytometry experience with multicolor panels
Demonstrated scientific productivity (peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and/or grants)
Willingness to take initiative to help the team do exciting science and reach common goals