Scientist II-Sr Scientist, Cellular Models and Translation

Profluent is an AI-first protein design company. Founded in 2022, we develop deep generative models to design and validate novel, functional proteins to revolutionize biomedicine. Based in Emeryville, CA, we are backed by leading investors including Spark Capital, Insight Partners, Air Street Capital, AIX Ventures, and Convergent Ventures.

We are seeking a motivated and creative Scientist II-Sr Scientist to join our Cellular Models and Translation team. As a founding member of the team, you will lead the development of key cellular and animal models to evaluate the functional effects of Profluent’s gene editing proteins on genetic disease. Your role will be critical in bridging discovery with in vivo pharmacology and validating our molecules for real-world impact.  

The ideal candidate will have a diverse in vitro and in vivo experimental skill set with a strong background in primary cell culture and a deep understanding of liver physiology, inherited metabolic disease, and genetic medicine.  The role offers a unique opportunity to spearhead translational efforts in collaboration with a diverse team of experts across AI and machine learning, protein design, and gene editing.

Responsibilities:

• Establish, optimize, and maintain advanced cellular models relevant to liver physiology and inherited metabolic disease, including primary human hepatocytes and/or hepatocyte-like iPSCs/organoids.
• In close collaboration with our discovery teams, evaluate biological effects of gene editing proteins in advanced cellular and in vivo disease models (eg, rodent) through phenotypic, genomic, and imaging-based readouts. 
• Design, engineer, and maintain patient-variant cellular and in vivo (eg, rodent) models and assist in validating gene editing and functional outcomes in those contexts.
• Serve as the technical expert and key liaison between Discovery (editor design, screening) and In vivo pharmacology teams (or CROs when applicable).
• Coordinate in vivo model validation and functional studies with CROs, spanning rodents and potentially NHPs.
• Troubleshoot complex biological problems; propose and test creative strategies when models do not behave as expected.
• Provide study design input, assist in writing protocols, grants, or regulatory documents involving model systems.
• Mentor junior scientists or research associates contributing to the modeling work.

Qualifications (Must-Have):

• PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or related field (or equivalent).
• 2-4 years of industry experience in advanced cellular and translational models for genetic disease.
• Extensive hands-on experience handling primary human hepatocytes and/or hepatic-like iPSCs/organoids, design and execution of phenotypic assays relevant to liver physiology and metabolism. 
• Hands-on experience with rodent genetic model creation (eg, CRISPR-based knock-ins, transgenics, breeding, genotyping, phenotyping, etc) and in vivo molecular assays.
• Hands-on experience or at least deep familiarity with measuring DNA repair outcomes from gene editing experiments and correlating editing efficiency with functional biological effects. 
• Proven track record of independently and successfully leading multifaceted research projects.
• Excellent communication skills, ability to present complex ideas, anticipated timelines, results, and conclusions to cross-functional colleagues and stakeholders.
• Deep familiarity with advanced delivery modalities (eg, LNPs) for programmable genetic medicines. 

Qualifications (Preferred):

• Hands-on experience with advanced delivery modalities (eg, LNPs, AAV, VLPs, etc.), testing in gene editing agents in rodent and/or NHP models systems.
• Experience mentoring or supervising junior scientists.
• Experience with advancing drug candidates towards clinical development, deep familiarity with regulatory paths, CMC and scale-up 

What we offer at Profluent

• A high-growth opportunity with meaningful impact
• Competitive compensation package
• Health insurance (health/dental/vision)
• Generous paid time off (PTO) policy
• Commitment to physical and mental well-being
• More benefits and perks to be added!

Profluent Bio, Inc is an equal opportunity employer promoting diversity and inclusion in the workspace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding), genetic information, taking or requesting statutorily protected leave, or any other basis protected by law.

Work Authorization Requirement

Applicants must have ongoing work authorization in the United States that does not require employer sponsorship. Sponsorship will not be provided now or at any time in the future for this position.

Employment Eligibility Verification

Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired must verify their identity and work eligibility and complete the required employment verification form upon hire.

Hiring Salary Range$141,000—$178,000 USD