Virology Scientist

Based in Rochester, MN, we are seeking a talented and proactive Virology Scientist to join our biotech company's innovative research team. As a Scientist, you will play a critical role in advancing our virology-based research and cell engineering efforts to develop cutting-edge viral vectors and cell-based therapies. Your expertise in virology, molecular biology, and cell engineering will be instrumental in supporting our mission to create transformative treatments for a wide range of diseases.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently design, rescue and characterize (in vitro) novel oncolytic VSV
• Plan and execute scientific research projects under minimal supervision.
• Collect, analyze, and present scientific data to the research and management teams; with proposed next steps.
• Self-motivated and driven to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Coordinate research efforts and make key scientific and technical contributions to the strategic development of cross-functional projects.

The candidate will perform independent experimental research but will work in close collaboration with the rest of the scientific team in a highly cross-functional and project-oriented environment.

Qualifications/Skills

• A Ph.D. or master's in Molecular/Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, Virology, or a related field.
• Must be proficient in cloning

Experience working with viruses e.g. influenza, Zika, Measles, Mumps, Herpes simplex (HSV), HIV, vaccinia, RSV, adenovirus, AAV

• Must have experience in the design, rescue, and characterization (engineering) of negative-sense single-stranded RNA viruses or have the background and skills to master it in a short period.
• Structural understanding of viral proteins and proficiency in a structural imaging program eg. PyMOL.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Valued Complementary Skills
Cell and virus culture, Molecular biology, qPCR, RT-PCR, ELISA, and ELISPOT. Viral analytics: virus rescue and amplification, plaque assay, TCID50, IFA, Cell-based assays: Cell proliferation and cytotoxicity assay, cell-signaling pathways, Molecular cloning of viral vectors for gene therapy or oncolytics.