Scientist, Cell Engineering and Screening

The Team

The CELLxSTATE Program is building next-generation technologies to decode and control how cells make decisions — combining live-cell imaging, multi-omics, and AI at unprecedented scale. At the core of this effort is multiDPS (Multimodal Dynamic Pooled Screening), a high-throughput experimental platform that integrates custom microscopy, automation, CRISPR screening and molecular profiling to map and predict dynamic cell states. As part of this effort, the Intracellular Architecture team at the CZ Biohub San Francisco (https://www.czbiohub.org/leonetti) is building scalable technologies to map the molecular architecture of human cells, how it changes in disease, and how we can control it. 

For this we combine genome engineering, fluorescence microscopy, proteomics, robotics, software engineering and data science. We build large datasets and use them to draw new biological insights. For example, our OpenCell project provides a large reference of protein localization and interactions that can be mined and re-used by the entire community for discovery (https://opencell.czbiohub.org/). Our science is fully open-source and published in journals like Science, Nature Methods, and Cell (https://bit.ly/3T5Fbmf; https://go.nature.com/3rXOSae; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0092867424013448). 

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Scientist to help lead our next-generation high-throughput cell engineering and pooled screening effort. This is a great opportunity for candidates with a strong interest in cell biology and biotechnology, supported by experts in a highly collaborative and well-funded scientific environment. We embrace team science and our projects bring together biologists, technology developers, engineers, data scientists and AI/ML experts.

What You'll Do

• Design libraries of live-cell fluorescent reporters to illuminate cellular activities (e.g. signaling);
• Build and lead high-throughput cell engineering pipelines;
• Conduct image-based pooled barcoded screens (e.g. CRISPR screens);
• Develop novel pooled screening methods;
• Partner with microscopy, image analysis, and AI/ML experts to quantify cellular responses and identify new cellular mechanisms;
• Present internally and externally to multidisciplinary teams, author publications, and mentor junior colleagues.

What You'll Bring

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Systems Biology, or a related discipline;
• At least 4 years of experience in tissue culture and cell engineering, including CRISPR;
• At least 1 year of experience in fluorescence microscopy;
• At least 1 year of experience in pooled screening methods;
• A deep knowledge of cellular signaling and stress pathways;
• A passion for research and understanding how cells work;
• An enthusiasm for team science and open science - this position will be embedded in a large multi-disciplinary team;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Compensation

The San Francisco, CA base pay range for a new hire in this role is Scientist I = $120,000.00 - $165,000.000. New hires are typically hired into the lower portion of the range, enabling employee growth in the range over time. Actual placement in range is based on job-related skills and experience, as evaluated throughout the interview process. 

Benefits for the Whole You 

We’re thankful to have an incredible team behind our work. To honor their commitment, we offer a wide range of benefits to support the people who make all we do possible. 

• Provides a generous employer match on employee 401(k) contributions to support planning for the future.
• Paid time off to volunteer at an organization of your choice. 
• Funding for select family-forming benefits. 
• Relocation support for employees who need assistance moving

If you’re interested in a role but your previous experience doesn’t perfectly align with each qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply as you may be the perfect fit for this or another role.

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