mRNA Scientist I, Process Development

At Editas Medicine, we are pioneering the possible. Our mission and commitment is to translate the power and potential of the CRISPR/Cas12a and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing systems into a robust pipeline of medicines for people living with serious diseases around the world.  Our goal is to discover, develop, manufacture, and commercialize transformative, durable, precision genomic medicines for a broad class of diseases.  

Why Choose Editas?

At Editas Medicine, we’re a team of passionate problem solvers, harnessing the power and potential of CRISPR gene editing to transform the future of medicine. Driven by a shared purpose to serve people living with serious diseases, we succeed together through collaboration, mutual respect, and innovation. If you want to be part of a team where your voice is heard and respected, where you can operate at the forefront of gene editing, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in medicine, come join us and become an Editor!

Decoding The Role:

The Process Development team within the Technical Operations Group is seeking a highly motivated scientist to support the development and production of critical RNA-based gene editing components. The successful candidate will contribute to advancing in vivo LNP programs from preclinical through to clinical stages by producing mRNA materials at small scale to support research and development efforts.

This role requires hands-on experience across both upstream and downstream aspects of the mRNA manufacturing process, as well as proficiency in analytical testing of mRNA intermediates and final products. A strong background in in-vitro transcription and nucleic acid analytics is essential. Additionally, the candidate will serve as a subject matter expert (SME) in interactions with external suppliers (both research-grade and GMP) and collaborate closely with the research team on molecule design and optimization.

Characterizing Your Impact:

As the mRNA scientist, you will:

• Manage external vendor activities to supply mRNA (research and GMP grades)
• Provide subject expertise internally and externally regarding plasmid DNA and mRNA design, quality characteristics, and production processes. 
• Prepare DNA templates for IVT e.g.  pDNA linearization, purification, and analysis.
• Perform IVT reactions to produce mRNA.
• Analyze final products and intermediates.
• Purify mRNA, as needed, using automated or semi-automated preparative FPLC/HPLC systems
• Desalt and concentrate final mRNA material using LiCl precipitation/tangential flow ultra-filtration (TFF) or similar technique(s).
• Coordinate with members of other teams and manage material requirements, priorities, and timelines. 
• Adapt as needed to meet the needs of the most critical project(s).
• Assist with the coordination of instrument preventative maintenance and repairs.
• Maintain an electronic laboratory notebook and miscellaneous documentation.
• Maintain reagent inventory.

The Ideal Transcript:

To thrive in this role, you’ll need:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biology, Pharmacy, Biochemistry or related discipline with 7+ years of relevant industry experience, Master’s degree with 5+ years of relevant industry experience, or PhD with 1+ years’ experience.
• In-depth knowledge of RNA and mRNA design, production methods, impurities, and analytics. 
• Experience with enzymatic reactions such as in vitro transcription (IVT)
• Experience with AKTA purification and instrumentation
• Experience with TFF and instrumentation a plus.
• Experience with nucleic acid analytics, including running gel and capillary electrophoresis and interpreting data.
• Experience with aseptic / RNase-free handling and operation
• Excellent time and project management.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Technical troubleshooting and organizational skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office programs.
• Prior experience managing external CRO and CDMO vendors is a plus
• Experience in high throughput processing methodologies and automation is a plus

Editas provides a comprehensive array of benefits to all employees, including a Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO Medical Plan, a company-funded Health Savings Account, Dental and Vision Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance, Dependent Care Account, Tuition Reimbursement, 401(k) plan with company match, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Employee Assistance Plan, Wellness Programs, and a flexible Paid Time Off policy

Salary Range:

$115,000 - $135,000

Pay Transparency

Editas Medicine is committed to transparency and accuracy in our hiring practices. The anticipated salary range for each position is posted within the role. The final salary offer will be determined based on a comprehensive assessment of the candidate's qualifications, including education, training, and relevant experience. Additional factors such as external market conditions, the role's criticality, and internal equity will also be considered. Editas Medicine's compensation philosophy ensures fair and equitable pay practices.

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Aspire to be an Editor? We invite you to apply and join us at the forefront of innovation and be a key contributor to realizing Editas Medicine's mission of developing transformative medicines for people living with serious diseases.