Postdoctoral Fellow – Cell Line Development, Lu & Ng Labs Full-time

Postdoctoral Fellow Position

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A postdoctoral fellow position is available for a creative, enthusiastic, and highly motivated cell culture and molecular biologist to join the Cell Line Development (CLD) group within the Cell Culture and Bioprocess Operations (CCBO) department at Genentech. Our group focuses on host cell line development using advanced cell line engineering technologies, with the aim of improving recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus (rAAV) manufacturing for gene therapy applications.

This position will focus on developing a HEK293 “Super-Host” platform for rAAV production. The project aims to understand and overcome the biological bottlenecks of rAAV producer cells, such as intrinsic host cell responses and cellular limitations that restrict viral yields.

The successful candidate will utilize advanced molecular and genetic engineering approaches, including multi-omics platforms, CRISPR/Cas9, and other advanced molecular biology tools, to identify and overcome cellular bottlenecks. You will explore ways to systematically modify the HEK293 host to tolerate intensive viral replication with the ultimate goal of generating a cell line to achieve better rAAV titers and quality.

The opportunity:

• You will have opportunities to productively collaborate with other researchers across gRED (Genentech Research and Early Development), pRED (Roche), PTCG (Pharma Technical Gene Therapies), and PTD (Pharma Technical Development), present your work to project teams, and contribute to scientific publications.
• You will gain exposure to the drug development pipeline and help overcome current large-scale manufacturing challenges, ultimately reducing the cost of goods (COGs) to make life-changing gene therapies commercially viable and accessible to much larger patient populations.
• You will be part of the Genentech post-doctoral training program that provides an outstanding environment and the opportunity to pursue fundamental basic science questions in an environment focused on drug development and breakthrough discoveries.

Who you are:

• Ph.D. with a proven track record of excellence in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, virology, biotechnology, bioengineering, chemical engineering, or a related discipline with 0+ years of industry experience.
• Must have advanced at least one key research project as evidenced by a first-author paper published or accepted in a leading peer-reviewed journal.
• An independent scientist with exceptional oral and written communication skills, a strong passion and commitment to science and bioprocess innovation, who works well within a team.
• Enthusiastic about applying genetic and molecular engineering to solve complex challenges in viral vector production.

Preferred qualifications:

• Relevant mammalian cell culture experience, specifically utilizing HEK293 cells.
• Hands-on experience with stable cell line generation.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques, including vector design, cloning, genetic engineering (e.g., CRISPR/Cas9, transposon-mediated systems).
• Experience with systems biology technologies (e.g., genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics)
• Relevant experience in rAAV production, purification, and characterization (e.g., full-to-empty ratio measurement, mass photometry, potency assay, long-read sequencing) is highly desired.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of California is $100,000 to $106,500. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Relocation benefits are available for this job posting.

Postdoc program

Elevate your research career to new heights with Genentech's Postdoctoral Program! Join a prestigious community of early career scientists and kick-start your journey toward becoming a scientific leader in biotechnology and bioengineering. With competitive salaries and fully funded research expenses, you can dedicate yourself to groundbreaking research that aligns with Genentech strategic ambitions.

The Genentech Postdoc Program provides access to world-class seminars, professional development workshops, and networking opportunities. Apply now to the Genentech Postdoctoral Program and unlock your full potential!

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