Scientist I / Scientist II, Stem Cell Biology - Neurology

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Job description

Scientist I / Scientist II, Stem Cell Biology

Seeking a researcher with experience in molecular and cellular biology to contribute to projects developing stem cell models for drug discovery for a variety of therapeutic areas. The successful candidate will have extensive expertise in developing complex assays using human pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs/hESCs). Additional experience with CRISPR gene editing, CRISPR screens, and high throughput biology is preferred.As a core member of the stem cell group, you will work independently on experiments using cutting edge functional genomics and biological methods. This is an exciting interdisciplinary role in a dynamic cross-functional team that will contribute directly to the identification of new targets and the design and validation of Client disease-modifying therapeutics.

Responsibilities:

• Establish and scale hiPSC differentiation protocols using 2D and 3D organoid cultures.
• Contribute strategically and creatively to in vitro assay design and optimization
• Develop complex assays in hiPSCs for target discovery, target validation, biomarker discovery, and molecular modeling of disease to support drug discovery programs.
• Work alongside functional genomics team to develop and optimize CRISPR screens in iPSCs and their differentiated derivatives.
• Collaborate closely with other scientists, bioinformations, and computational biologists.
• Present findings and data analysis in research meetings.

Qualifications:

• PhD degree in a biological discipline with relevant stem cell research experience, or M.S. with 5+ years of stem cell research experience.
• Demonstrated experience and expertise in differentiation of iPSCs into various lineages, e.g. neuronal, cardiac, renal.
• Demonstrated experience in utilizing iPSCs for disease modeling, target discovery, and target validation, preferably in a drug discovery or industry setting.
• Extensive experience with cell-based assay development using wide range of assays including but not limited to ELISA, q-PCR, single-cell RNA seq, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, and high-content imaging.
• Experience with CRISPR gene editing and pooled/arrayed CRISPR screens is preferred.
• Experience with laboratory automation is a plus.
• Demonstrated record of success with a strong publication record.
• Organized, detail-oriented, excellent record-keeping skills, excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and perform well in a team environment.

Company Description:

About Ascent:

Ascent is a leading national technology consulting and professional services firm that focuses on tactical and strategic consulting. Ascent's fundamental business is providing staffing services to Large Enterprise clients in our core market verticals: Financial Services, Healthcare, and Life Sciences. We focus the majority of our efforts in Staff Augmentation support of Large Enterprise Clients who utilize a Vendor Management System. Ascent works as both a reliable supplier in support of programs, as well as a Strategic Advisor in support of enterprise efforts to establish best in class preferred vendor programs. Ascent was ranked in the 2007 and 2008 Inc. 500 and recognized specifically for its innovative work in staff augmentation support of Large Enterprise preferred vendor accounts.

If you are ready to propel your career to new heights… read on. We are looking for talented and dedicated colleagues to join our phenomenal team. At Ascent, we have created an environment where culture, commitment and opportunity converge to yield a truly unique place to work. We know that every employee has something important to say and that every employee is integral to our success. Where else can you walk over to a founder and talk about your ideas to help build our business and have that idea implemented in 48 hours? More importantly, we do everything we can to make sure our employees not only have great jobs, but great lives.