Research Associate In Vivo Pharmacology

at  eTheRNA

etherna provides research and manufacturing excellence by teaming up with highly skilled scientists, researchers and technical experts who are recognized for their contributions to the industry. We acquired substantial intellectual property and know-how over the years that support our exceptional leadership in mRNA and LNP innovation. With a careful balance in our skillset, state-of-the-art facilities and specialized equipment we tackle complex challenges and assure efficiency in our operations.
www.etherna.be | www.ethernamanufacturing.com

GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION

You will contribute to the development of innovative RNA-based formulations with a particular focus on in vivo pharmacology. This is a highly-collaborative, hands-on position at the interface of discovery, CMC and preclinical activities. As a key member of integrated multi-disciplinary teams, you will work in a matrix environment where initiative, close teamwork and technical scientific expertise is required. The position requires organization, excellent communication and technical skills and a capacity for constant innovation in the pursuit of company goals. The Research Associate is a hands-on person responsible for in vivo animal models and ex-vivo tests including input on the implementation, optimization and validation of new methods. This position reports to the Senior Scientist in vivo Pharmacology and will be based in our research site in Zwijnaarde (Ghent), Belgium.

EDUCATION

• Professional bachelor’s degree in biomedical laboratory Techniques or master’s degree in biomedical sciences/Biotechnology or related field or equivalent relevant laboratory experience
• FELASA B/C certified

EXPERIENCE

• Prior experience in in vivo studies and animal handling is mandatory
• Preferably 1-2 years of relevant experience in a research environment focused on biotechnology, biology, immunology or related field, either in academia or biotech
• Experience with the culture of cell lines for in vivo models and with immunological assays is a plus
• Experience with flow cytometry is an advantage
• Basic knowledge of statistics is preferable
• Animal colony management experience (and knowledge of colony management software) is an advantage

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

• Detail-oriented and accurate in following instructions, record keeping and completion of reports
• Able to perform experimental troubleshooting and to propose technical solutions
• Scientific integrity
• Good communication skills
• Well organized, well-structured, hands-on, result focused
• Able to work under stringent timelines
• Ability to foster teamwork and a collaborative atmosphere. Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team with multiple cultural backgrounds
• Enthusiastic, flexible and able to multitask. Flexibility dealing with changing priorities and the capacity to continuously prioritize is required
• Proficient in written and spoken English
• Knowledge of MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) and Prism

The duties shall include, but are not limited to:

• Perform in vivo experiments to assess the expression, efficacy, safety and mode-of-action of etherna’s mRNA immunotherapies.
• Independently plan and execute in vivo and ex-vivo experiments, upon approval
• Mice manipulations including injections (intramuscular, intravenous, intraperitoneal, subcutaneous), blood collection, weight measurements, muscle swelling, and in vivo imaging, organ dissection and ex-vivo imaging
• Generation and characterization of formulations for mRNA delivery
• Analysis of harvested cells and biological materials using techniques such as flow cytometry, ELISA, ELISPOT
• Cell culture of murine cell lines and primary cells required for ex-vivo assays (including splenocytes, PMBCs, bone marrow cells)
• Assist in the development of new assays, including optimizations and writing/adjustment of protocols and SOPs
• Compile and analyze data to assist and present in project team or other internal meetings and maintain a detailed electronic lab book related to ongoing experiments
• Assist in keeping track of relevant advancements in the field by means of literature search
• Assist in maintaining a clean and tidy lab environment and share common maintenance tasks, including the animal facility