Scientist | AAV vectors for target validation research Full-time

The Position

Join a cutting-edge research team advancing drug target validation through next-generation vector technologies. As a Scientist, you will work on various aspects of AAV production, vector optimization, characterization and functional application. You will develop tailored gene modulation strategies to enable target validation and disease modeling approaches in early drug discovery research. This role offers the opportunity to collaborate with multidisciplinary experts and contribute to transformative approaches in drug discovery within a dynamic pharma research environment.

Tasks & Responsibilities

• In your new role, you will produce, purify and analyze AAV preparations; the evaluation and implementation of novel process improvements will also be part of your responsibility.
• You will design, optimize and characterize AAV vectors (capsid, expression cassette) for targeted tissue delivery and modulation of target gene expression in mice.
• In this context, you will apply and interpret DNA-, RNA-, and protein-based readouts, such as qPCR, in situ hybridization, sequencing and immunohistochemistry
• As a member of multidisciplinary drug discovery teams, you will design and implement target modulation approaches (overexpression, knockdown, CRISPR-KO, CRISPRa) to investigate and validate novel drug targets
• In addition, you will stay abreast of emerging technologies and scientific advancements, evaluating and implementing innovative solutions to continuously advance our capabilities.

Requirements

• PhD degree in molecular biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, molecular medicine, or related discipline
• Deep scientific expertise and several years of hands-on experience across AAV design, production, and in vivo application is a must; additional experience with other vector systems (e.g. Lenti, LNP) is a plus
• Strong knowledge of disease biology and molecular, cell, and immune biology to support target discovery and validation across multiple indications
• Profound knowledge of molecular and cell biological techniques; experience in animal and/or tissue handling is a plus
• Expertise in expression construct design for in vivo gene modulation, including CRISPR/Cas9
• Track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Fluent in written and spoken English (German is a plus), with excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary and international scientific teams

Start date: November 1st, 2026

As part of our commitment to transparency and fairness, salary information will be shared during the recruitment process. We also offer a comprehensive benefits and wellbeing package. Applications from persons with severe disabilities are warmly welcomed. In cases of equal qualifications, such applicants will be given preferential consideration in the selection process.

Ready to Contact Us?

If you have any questions about the job posting or process – please contact our HR Direct Team, Tel: +49 6132 77-3330 or via mail: hr.de@boehringer-ingelheim.com

Recruitment process:

• Step 1: Online application – The job posting is presumably online until August 24, 2026. We reserve the right to take the posting offline beforehand.
• Step 2: Virtual meeting early September
• Step 3: On-site interviews end of September

Please submit your application documents in English.