Cell-Based Assay Scientist - Analytical Development

Garuda Therapeutics, a biotechnology company focused on developing off-the-shelf human hematopoietic stem cell-based cellular therapies, is seeking a highly motivated Scientist (level to be determined) to join its growing team. The full-time role will be a key Analytical Development team member, focusing on developing, qualifying, and transferring assays for the release and characterization of gene-edited human pluripotent and hematopoietic stem cells. The ideal candidate will be responsible for the day-to-day execution of projects relevant to the core focus of the Garuda Therapeutics, based on-site in Cambridge, MA.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Developing and qualifying release and characterization assays for human pluripotent and hematopoietic stem cells (e.g., cell count and viability, flow cytometry, hematopoietic stem cell potency assays, etc.)
• Executing in vitro assays to support process development activities
• Collaborating internally with Garuda team, train colleagues in new techniques and maintain relationships with external scientific partners

• PhD with 1+ years of related experience, or MS with 5+ years of related experience, or BS with 8+ years of related experience
• Prior experience in the biotech/pharmaceutical industry is required
• Experience with cell culture and developing/qualifying cell-based assays
• Strong skills in data analysis and interpretation, particularly in the context of Flow cytometry and cell-based data
• Experience with transferring assays to contract testing labs
• Demonstrated excellence in planning, executing, and analyzing experiments
• Critical thinking and independence, ability to troubleshoot, solve difficult problems, and develop assay improvements
• Attention to detail and careful record-keeping
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, able to write technical reports and protocols
• Flexible team player excited to collaborate with internal and external partners
• Highly self-motivated and flexibility in working schedule to accommodate weekend work if necessary

• Hands-on experience in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) culture maintenance, differentiation protocols and hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) culture
• Proficiency in designing, optimizing, and qualification of flow cytometry methods for the deep characterization of HSCs derived from iPSCs
• Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and ability to ensure analytical methods meet regulatory requirements for the cell therapy product development