Sr. Scientist, Cell Therapy Editing Strategy and Analytics

Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at Astellas.com.

We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact.

The primary purpose of the Sr. Scientist, Cell Therapy Editing Strategy and Analytics role is to provide scientific expertise from the bench through planning and reporting teams, to inform editing strategies for cell therapy programs across Astellas Primary Focus indications. This position will work as part of a cross-functional team planning and executing gene-editing activities of pluripotent stem cells. This is a primarily laboratory-based role in a fast-paced environment with opportunities for bringing cutting-edge technologies to ensure efficient operation and on-time delivery of edited cells to ensure program timelines.

• →Design and execute complex and novel AAV-mediated gene-editing of pluripotent stem cells to develop strategies compatible with allogenic cell therapy product creation, this could extend to nuclease or recombinase-based editing systems
• →Lead efforts to evaluate new cutting-edge gene editing technologies, develop genome engineering & hypo immune strategies; develop molecular and cellular assays for characterization of edited cells
• →Work cross-functionally, including on project teams to generate representative clones for downstream teams
• →Perform and oversee data collection, analysis and interpretation with a high degree of scientific rigor
• →Contribute to and oversee internal milestone achievements and generation of key deliverables
• →Communicate results in both oral and written formats by participating regularly in team meeting preparations and presentations
• →Lead group meeting discussions and regularly presents at cross-functional team meetings to drive decision-making and priorities
• →Proactively identifies challenges and proposes solutions to management in a timely manner.
• →Prepare and review the work of others to include, but not limited to, technical slide decks, reports and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• →Serve as a subject matter expert for tech transfer and preparation of regulatory filings
• →Ensure smooth day-to-day operations, including on the weekends
• →Perform other duties as assigned or special projects as needed
• →Stay up to date on literature and mentor junior members on product development
• →May manage a team

• A Ph.D. in biology, genome sciences, or a related discipline with 5+ years of relevant post-graduate experience, or a MS with 8+ years, or a BS with 12+ years of highly relevant experience
• Solid technical background in aseptic mammalian cell culture and process optimization
• Gene editing of pluripotent stem cells and associated analytical characterization assays
• Ability to identify opportunities for process improvement and to problem solve in a timely manner.
• Strong work ethic and adaptability with a passion for working in a fast-paced, dynamic, and diverse work environment
• Strong organizational and time management skills with scientific attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively both independently and in collaboration with other teams
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Excellent record keeping
• Experience building and managing databases
• Ability to write and follow established SOPs
• Demonstrate and understanding of working under controlled environment
• Experience managing a team
• Willingness to learn new protocols, relevant equipment, and related software
• Ability to work occasional days on weekends and holidays as required
• Flexible way of working to attend early morning or late-night teleconference meetings

• Experience with tech transfer to other departments and sites
• Strong background in immunology and immune assays
• Experience with product development
• Familiarity with cell and gene therapy regulatory landscape

This position is based in Northbrook, Illinois.  Remote work from anywhere in the US is available.

At Astellas we recognize the importance of work/life balance, and we are proud to offer a hybrid working solution allowing time to connect with colleagues at the office with the flexibility to also work from home. We believe this will optimize the most productive work environment for all employees to succeed and deliver. Hybrid work from certain locations may be permitted in accordance with Astellas’ Responsible Flexibility Guidelines.

• Global collaboration: Become part of a connected global business of like-minded life science leaders, all dedicated to improving patients' lives worldwide.
• Real-world patient impact: Contribute to transformative therapies that reach patients around the world, knowing your work makes a difference every day.
• Relentless Innovation: Join a company at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs, where you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of healthcare.
• A Culture of Growth: Chart your own course within a supportive environment that values your contributions, champions your development, and empowers you to pursue your passions.

$119,000-$170,000(Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to skills, experience and organizational equity considerations)