Principal Scientist, Computational Biology:
Affinia Therapeutics

1576582925
Affinia Therapeutics
Waltham Massachusetts
Pharmaceutical
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Description
Affinia Therapeutics is an innovative gene therapy company focused on broadening the reach of gene therapy. Our proprietary Affinia Rationally-designed Therapies (ART) platform is created to address key limitations of conventional gene therapies, by developing novel capsids, novel promoters, and novel manufacturing approaches to developing gene therapies for rare and prevalent devastating diseases. We are backed by a strong syndicate of life science investors and have ambitious plans to have a dramatic impact on the lives of patients around the world. As an early employee you will play a key role in setting our culture and values. The pace of work is dynamic, fast and fun.

We offer competitive salary and benefits with the ability to making significant impact to patients' lives.

Position Summary

The computational science group is a core component of the entire discovery and development process at Affinia Tx. We are looking for an accomplished, collaborative computational biologist to develop cutting edge analytical strategy and tools specific to gene therapy.

You will report to the VP of Computational Science and work synergistically with scientists in the Vector Discovery and Translational Science groups to identify and design next generation AAV capsids by analyzing Affinia's proprietary barcoded AAV variant library data sets. Team members work together to straddle the lines between research, development, and support. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience, develop and make a difference in a dynamic, next-generation gene therapy environment.

Position Summary

  • Serve as a computational biology lead on discovery and development projects to design and execute appropriate informatics analysis strategies.
  • Provide the design and coding for data input and output, and other mechanisms for integrating computational components, data storage and other elements.
  • Collaborate with experimental scientists and bioinformatic engineers to develop pipelines to automate data analysis.
  • Develop bioinformatics analysis in scripting languages such as R/Python/shell scripting in a cloud environment.
  • Work with both internal and external collaborators to integrate large genomics datasets for deeper understanding of AAV biology and discover and implement the best technology for optimal vector design.
  • Interact and educate other research scientists to create a collaborative and enriching culture that most effectively supports the company's mission.
  • Communicate scientifically rigorous findings via verbal and written communications, visualizations, and presentations.
Minimum Qualifications

  • PhD in bioinformatics quantitative sciences (Statistics, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Bioinformatics) with large biomedical data analysis experience.
  • 8+ years of biopharmaceutical experience with supporting cross functional research teams.
  • Hands on experience with NGS (genetics, bulk or single cell RNAseq, proteomics) data analysis.
  • Working knowledge of single cell RNAseq, single cell ATACseq datasets from Human Cell Atlas, dbGAP and GIT repository.
  • Fluent in R or Python with expertise in statistical algorithm development.
  • Demonstrated ability to summarize analytical results, derive interpretation and recommend follow up actions to peer scientists.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and execute custom computational and statistical analysis plans leveraging novel algorithms and relevant databases and statistical theory.
  • Strong communication skills, innate scientific curiosity and collaborative team spirit.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in UNIX/LINUX/HPC GIT.
Preferred Qualifications

  • Training or wet lab experience in molecular biology, biochemistry and protein engineering.
  • Experience in AWS or similar cloud computing platform.
  • Experience in in-vitro and/or in-vivo functional screen data analysis.
  • Knowledge of AAV biology and gene therapy
  • Strong publication record.
EEO Statement: Affinia Therapeutics is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.