Senior Research Associate In Vitro Pharmacology

Saturnus Bio; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Saturnus Bio in Cambridge, MA, is seeking a scientist to drive ASO/siRNA discovery programs targeting monogenic cardiomyopathies. You will design and execute experiments, evaluate targets, and advance candidates through lead selection.

You will develop assays (qPCR/dPCR, ELISA, capillary western) to quantify RNA and protein modulation, collaborate with chemistry, bioinformatics, and translational teams, and document results for cross-functional reviews.

Qualifications

• BA or MA with biotech lab experience as specified in the ad.
• Expertise in RNA-targeting oligonucleotide therapeutics and associated assays.
• Ability to work independently and adapt to company priorities.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to scientific execution of ASO/siRNA discovery programs from target evaluation to lead selection.
• Develop, optimize, and apply molecular, cellular, and biochemical assays to quantify RNA and protein modulation.
• Collaborate with chemistry, bioinformatics, and translational research teams to advance oligonucleotide therapeutics.
• Maintain accurate experimental documentation and reports.
• Present results at cross-functional team meetings.

Skills

RNA targeting therapeutics

Mammalian cell culture

Transfection methods

Quantitative assays

Independent work

Time management

Education

BA in biotech or related field

MA/MS in biotech or related field

Tools

CRISPR genome engineering

Flow cytometry

Next-generation sequencing

High-content imaging

Viral vector systems (AAV/lentivirus)

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the scientific execution of ASO/siRNA discovery programs targeting monogenic cardiomyopathies, from target evaluation through candidate and lead selection.
• Develop, optimize, and apply molecular, cellular, and biochemical assays (including qPCR/dPCR, reporter assays, ELISA, MSD-ECL, and automated capillary western blotting) to quantify RNA and protein modulation.
• Collaborate closely with chemistry, bioinformatics, and translational research teams to advance oligonucleotide therapeutics from discovery through candidate selection.
• Maintain accurate experimental documentation and reports
• Present results at cross-functional team meetings

Required Qualifications

• B.A. and 5 years of biotech/pharma lab experience; or M.A. and 3 years of biotech/pharma lab experience
• Expertise in RNA targeting oligonucleotide therapeutics, including evaluations of ASO/siRNA screening, mammalian cell culture, various cell transfection methods, and various quantitative assays for nucleic acids and proteins.
• Ability to work independently with flexibility to adapt with company priorities
• Time management and organizational skills to enable high quality effort towards multiple projects or experiments concurrently
• Strong organization and record keeping habits in electronic notebooks

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with targeted oligonucleotide delivery platforms.
• Expertise in iPSC-derived cardiomyocyte biology, cardiac disease modeling, and functional cardiac assays.
• Experience with RNA-targeted therapeutics approaches, including oligonucleotide-based modalities.
• Broad expertise in modern molecular biology techniques, including CRISPR genome engineering, viral vector systems (AAV/lentivirus), flow cytometry, next-generation sequencing, and high-content imaging.
• Experience establishing discovery platforms that integrate computational predictions with experimental validation for target discovery and prioritization.
• Strong publication and/or patent record in RNA therapeutics or related fields.
• Demonstrated track record of mentoring scientists, building technical capabilities, and advancing discovery programs from concept through candidate selection.