Sr Scientist, Genomic Sciences and Target Discovery

Scorpion Therapeutics; United States; On-site; USD 151,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Scorpion Therapeutics is seeking a Ph.D.-level scientist to lead CRISPR-based functional genomics efforts in CNS drug discovery, validating therapeutic hypotheses in vitro and in preclinical models.

The role involves using CRISPR/Cas9, CRISPRa, and CRISPRi for gene modulation, developing delivery methods, and collaborating with neuroscience, pharmacology, and translational teams; onsite work with competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Genomics, or related field.
• 3+ years of functional genomics experience, industry CNS drug discovery preferred.
• Proficiency in CRISPR/Cas9, CRISPRa, and CRISPRi.
• In vivo CNS CRISPR delivery experience (AAV, lipids, electroporation).

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and execute CRISPR-based functional genomics strategies to validate therapeutic hypotheses in vitro and in preclinical CNS models.
• Use CRISPR/Cas9, CRISPRa, CRISPRi to modulate gene expression in neuroanatomy contexts.
• Develop and optimize CRISPR delivery methods (viral and non-viral) for CNS gene editing.
• Establish and validate CRISPR-edited rodent models with molecular, cellular, and behavioral readouts.

Skills

CRISPR/Cas9

In vivo CNS delivery

Genomics data analysis

Behavioral phenotyping

Education

Ph.D. in Neuroscience/Molecular Biology/Genomics

Tools

Python

R

Unix CLI

AAV vectors

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and execute CRISPR-based functional genomics strategies to validate therapeutic hypotheses in vitro and in preclinical models of CNS diseases.
• Use CRISPR/Cas9, CRISPRa, and CRISPRi to modulate gene expression and study target biology in neuroanatomy and neurocircuitry contexts.
• Develop and optimize CRISPR delivery methods (viral and non-viral) for precise CNS gene editing.
• Establish and validate CRISPR-edited rodent models using molecular, cellular, and behavioral readouts to assess target engagement and functional outcomes.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with neuroscience, pharmacology, and translational teams to integrate functional genomics insights into drug discovery.
• Perform molecular and cellular assays (PCR, NGS, immunohistochemistry, single-cell sequencing) to confirm CRISPR-mediated gene modifications.
• Maintain detailed experimental and data interpretation records per corporate documentation standards.
• Stay current on emerging CRISPR technologies and functional genomics to drive innovation.
• Communicate findings and recommendations to internal and external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Genomics, or related field; 3+ years functional genomics experience (industry CNS drug discovery preferred).
• Proficiency in human (Mendelian/population genetics) and model organism genetics.
• Expertise in CRISPR/Cas9, CRISPRa, and CRISPRi.
• In vivo CNS CRISPR delivery experience (e.g., AAV, lipid nanoparticles, electroporation).
• Strong neuroanatomy/neurocircuitry background; experience validating gene edits in preclinical models.
• Proficiency in molecular biology and tissue culture; develop/maintain CRISPR-edited cell lines.
• Familiarity with rodent models, behavioral assays, and CNS-relevant phenotyping.
• Strong data analysis/interpretation; bioinformatics experience.
• Excellent communication and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with single-cell RNA-seq, spatial transcriptomics, or electrophysiology.
• Proficiency with Python, R, or Unix CLI for CRISPR screening data.

Compensation & Work Setting

• Base salary: $151,000–$170,000; eligible for annual performance bonus; competitive benefits package.
• Onsite 5 days/week.