Director Interdisciplinary Science Jobs in California

ATUM is a leader in cell line development, gene synthesis, and protein engineering. We are seeking a highly motivated, bench-heavy Senior Scientist to join our Cell Line Development (CLD) team. This is a hands-on, high-impact laboratory role focused on applying deep, foundational principles of molecular and cell biology—including CRISPR and gene editing—to solve complex expression challenges, engineer robust mammalian systems, and drive the next generation of CHO host cell lines.

The ideal candidate brings rigorous academic training and exceptional technical mastery in core molecular biology, gene regulation, cellular mechanisms, and genome editing. Crucially, you possess outstanding communication and interdisciplinary skills, enabling you to bridge complex scientific disciplines and collaborate seamlessly across cross-functional matrix teams. Rather than relying solely on standardized automated CLD workflows, you will leverage your scientific depth and collaborative mindset to design novel vector strategies, apply CRISPR systems for host cell engineering, troubleshoot complex expression constructs, and optimize host cell biology for recombinant protein production.

Core Responsibilities

• Bench-Heavy Laboratory Execution: Spend the majority of time (~80%) at the bench executing hands-on molecular biology, vector construction, CRISPR/gene editing, host cell engineering, transfection, and cell line generation experiments.
• CRISPR & Host Cell Engineering: Design and execute target-specific CRISPR/Cas9 (and related gene-editing technologies) strategies for targeted gene knock-ins, knock-outs, and functional genomic modifications to optimize CHO host cell phenotypes.
• Vector Design & Genetic Engineering: Apply deep theoretical and practical knowledge of molecular biology to design, construct, and evaluate novel expression vectors, promoters, and genetic elements to maximize recombinant protein expression in CHO cells.
• Cell Biology & Expression Optimization: Investigate cellular mechanisms governing gene integration, transcription, translation, and protein secretion; apply cell biology techniques (e.g., transient and stable transfections) to engineer host cell lines.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work dynamically at the intersection of molecular biology, cell line development, protein engineering, and bioinformatics to translate multifaceted data into actionable experimental strategies.
• Clear Scientific Communication: Present research strategies, technical updates, and complex data clearly and concisely in cross-functional team meetings, internal seminars, and written reports.
• Experimental Design & Rigorous Analysis: Independently design well-controlled experiments, execute complex laboratory workflows, perform thorough data analysis, and interpret results to troubleshoot scientific bottlenecks.
• Detailed Scientific Documentation: Maintain rigorous, real-time electronic laboratory notebook (ELN) records, write comprehensive technical reports, and contribute to standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Qualifications

• Education: Ph.D. in Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a closely related life sciences discipline (required).
• Experience: Ph.D. with 0–3 years of experience; recent Ph.D. graduates with strong academic research track records are fully encouraged to apply.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Demonstrated mastery of CRISPR and gene editing tools
  • Demonstrated mastery of core molecular biology techniques
  • Demonstrated mastery of cell biology fundamentals
  • Note: Direct prior experience with specialized industrial CHO CLD automation or high-throughput instruments is not required; we prioritize exceptional foundational scientific and gene-editing ability and a drive to learn.
• Communication & Interdisciplinary Skills:
  • Communication: Exceptional verbal, written, and active listening skills; ability to convey complex molecular biology concepts to diverse technical and non-technical stakeholders clearly and persuasively.
  • Interdisciplinary Agility: Proven capability to collaborate effectively across scientific boundaries (e.g., interfacing with gene synthesis, analytics, protein biochemistry, and bioinformatics teams) to solve broad biological problems.
• Soft Skills: Strong analytical problem-solving skills, high attention to detail, adaptability, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, matrixed environment.

Why ATUM?

• Innovative Environment: Be at the forefront of the next-gen biotech revolution in Quantitative Biology.
• Culture of Excellence: Enjoy a collaborative, hands-on atmosphere with mentorship and rapid professional growth opportunities.
• Perks & Benefits: Free daily catered lunch, comprehensive health benefits, PTO, and a 401(k) with a Safe Harbor plan.
• Compensation Range: $120,000 – $150,000 base salary (commensurate with experience).