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Co-op, Gene Therapy Discovery

Boston

About us:

Ascidian is redefining the treatment of disease by rewriting RNA.

Ascidian Therapeutics was founded to rewrite RNA by editing and replacing human exons. We were inspired by ocean creatures, called Ascidians, who are primordial ancestors of vertebrates. To grow from larvae to adults, ascidians re-engineer their transcriptome through RNA editing via trans-splicing and alternative splicing.

In our Brighton/Boston labs, RNA biology meets today’s cutting-edge genomics, computational biology, and deep-sequencing technologies to create a new class of medicines that address the underlying causes of disease. We welcome you to come join our vibrant team and help us lead the way into a new gene therapy era.

Your role on the team:

Ascidian Therapeutics is seeking a Co-op student with molecular biology experience to join our team. The Co-op will work with an experienced scientific mentor to develop and carry out cellular and molecular biology-based assays to characterize potential therapeutic molecules. The candidate must be creative, detail-oriented, have excellent communication skills, and be willing to work in a dynamic entrepreneurial environment.

General Requirements:

  • Candidate must be currently enrolled in a BS or MS degree program in biological sciences or a related discipline
  • Candidate must be available to work full-time for up to (6) consecutive months beginning in early 2025
  • Candidate must be enrolled in a Co-op program through their college or university
  • Experience in the following techniques:

○ PCR, gel electrophoresis, gel imaging

○ Molecular cloning (e.g., traditional, Golden Gate, Gibson, etc.)

○ Nucleic acid preparation (DNA, RNA)

○ qPCR

  • Demonstrated ability to perform accurate data analysis
  • Desire to develop knowledge of drug discovery and passion for working at the bench to advance programs and solve technical challenges
  • Self-motivation and adaptability to evolving project priorities and responsibilities
  • Effective communication and organizational skills
  • Team-oriented, with a strong work ethic

This role requires the student to work from the 80 Guest St. Boston, MA site throughout the duration of the Co-op term

Additional skills/experience beneficial, but not required:

  • Mammalian cell culture
  • Western blotting

Responsibilities:

  • Design, execute, interpret, and report cellular and molecular biology-based assays to characterize potential therapeutic molecules
  • Work independently and collaboratively with multi-disciplinary teams to solve complex problems
  • Maintain detailed records using electronic lab notebooks
  • Effectively communicate progress and results to the team
  • Assist in the optimization and validation of new technologies and procedures

 

Benefits:

We provide a vibrant startup environment where every employee contributes to our culture and science. We offer a generous total rewards plan that includes competitive compensation, stock options, and benefits. Our benefits include a top-tier health and wellness plan, commuter reimbursement or paid monthly parking, tuition or loan reimbursement, career development opportunities and so much more.

A final note - we highly encourage you to apply for our position, even if you are not sure you meet all the requirements. Everyone has unique talents, and at Ascidian, we look not only at your experience but your potential. We know that the best teams consist of diverse backgrounds, so please apply!

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