Scientist I, Microglia

Socket.dev; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 109,000 - 133,000; Full time

Job summary

Aspen Neuroscience is seeking a Scientist I, Microglia, to advance iPSC-derived cell therapy programs through differentiation, characterization, and translational research. The role involves planning experiments, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and contributing to preclinical studies in Torrey Pines, CA.

The candidate will lead differentiation processes, evaluate cellular phenotype and engraftment, and participate in scientific conferences and publications.

Qualifications

• PhD in biology, neuroscience, or related field; 3+ years in molecular/cellular research.
• Experience with iPSCs, microglia, in vivo disease modeling, gene editing, or bioinformatics preferred.
• Strong communication and data presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and document results.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to support cell therapy programs.
• Lead development and optimization of iPSC-derived microglia differentiation.
• Manage external collaborations and communicate results.

Skills

iPSC technology

microglia

in vivo disease modeling

gene editing

bioinformatics

flow cytometry

qRT-PCR

RNA sequencing

immunohistochemistry

live cell imaging

Ca imaging

MEA

neurobiology

communication skills

analytical skills

organization

flexible hours

Education

PhD in biology/neuroscience

3+ years molecular/cellular research experience

experience with iPSCs/microglia

Tools

Prism

FlowJo

cell profiler

Spotfire

Job description

Join a team shaping the future of cell therapy. As a Scientist I, Microglia, you'll contribute to the advancement of microglia and other cell therapy programs through cell differentiation, characterization, translational research, and preclinical studies. This role will plan and execute scientific experiments and laboratory activities in support of the development of iPSC-derived cell therapy products. The role requires close collaboration with cross-functional teams, external research partners, and scientific leadership to support both program advancement and evaluation of future therapeutic opportunities. This is an on-site role in Torrey Pines, CA that requires flexibility and availability for weekend and holiday work as needed. Relocation is not available.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work independently to design and conduct experimental plans with guidance, analyze data, and contribute to technical reports and other documentation.
• Perform research and/or development in collaboration with others for own and collaborative projects.
• Make detailed observations, analyze data, and interpret results.
• Investigate, create, and develop new methods and technologies for project advancement.
• Troubleshoot and solve problems in the design/execution of projects.
• Work cross-functionally with other departments to support the release, stability and characterization of the Company’s cell therapy products.
• Contribute to writing technical reports and other documentation.
• May participate in scientific conferences and contribute to scientific journals and patents.
• Contribute to supervision and training of Research Associates.
• Lead the development, optimization, and characterization of iPSC-derived microglia differentiation processes, including execution of in vitro and in vivo studies to evaluate cellular phenotype, function, engraftment, and therapeutic activity.
• Contribute to corporate strategy and pipeline expansion through scientific evaluation of new therapeutic areas, platform applications, emerging technologies, and external research partnerships.
• Manage external academic collaborations and contract research activities, including study design, execution, data review, and communication of results to internal and external stakeholders.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• PhD in biology, neuroscience, or related disciplines or equivalent education and experience.
• Minimum 3 years hands-on experience working in a molecular or cellular research environment. No previous industry experience required.
• Experience with iPSCs, microglia, in vivo disease modeling, gene editing, or bioinformatics is strongly preferred.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS:

• Data Analysis & Presentation: Organize and present data efficiently.
• Professional Scientific Expertise: Stay updated with scientific literature relevant to iPSC derived cell therapies, competing technologies, and comply with safety, training, and quality regulations.
• Technical Proficiency: Demonstrate scientific creativity and technical skills.
• Cell Culture Techniques: Proficient in aseptic cell culture, with required experience in hESCs or hiPSCs.
• Gene Editing Expertise: Competent in designing gene editing, optimization, and validation experiments
• In Vivo Research: Preferred experience with preclinical animal studies, including experimental design, study execution, tissue collection, histological analysis, and interpretation of in-vivo efficacy and mechanistic data.
• Molecular Techniques: Preferred experience in flow cytometry, qRT-PCR, RNAseq, and IHC.
• Neurobiology Expertise: Preferred experience working with microglia,macrophages, neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, or related CNS disease models.
• Functional Assays: Preferred experience in live cell imaging, Ca imaging, and MEA.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written skills for effective communication.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and quantitative skills, with experience in bioinformatic tools (e.g., Prism, Flow-Jo, cell profiler, Spotfire).
• Organization: Highly organized with project coordination abilities.
• Flexible Schedule: Must be willing to work flexible hours including some weekends.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General office and laboratory environment. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is frequently exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals. Training and personal protective gear are provided.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust

focus.

EEO and Employment Eligibility:

Aspen Neuroscience is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and job applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Aspen is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this role. Applicants must have valid work authorization that does not require employer sponsorship now or in the future.

Total Rewards and Culture:

Aspen Neuroscience, Inc., located in scenic Torrey Pines, is noted for its collaborative and learning focused culture where each person is valued for contributing their strengths and energy to building a world-class line of products for patients in need. The company offers a competitive total compensation package, time-off in addition to Company observed holidays, Medical/Dental insurance benefits, onsite gym, and other wellness perks.

The anticipated salary range for candidates who will work in San Diego is $108,900 - $133,100 annually. The final salary offered to a successful candidate will be dependent on several factors that may include but are not limited to the type and length of experience within the industry, education, etc. Aspen Neuroscience is multi-state employer, and this salary range may not reflect positions that work in other states.