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4DMT is a clinical-stage biotherapeutics company harnessing the power of directed evolution for targeted genetic medicines. We seek to unlock the full potential of gene therapy using our platform, Therapeutic Vector Evolution (TVE), which combines the power of directed evolution with our approximately one billion synthetic AAV capsid-derived sequences to invent evolved vectors for use in our products. We believe key features of our targeted and evolved vectors will help us create targeted product candidates with improved therapeutic profiles. These profiles will allow us to treat a broad range of large market diseases, unlike most current genetic medicines that generally focus on rare or small market diseases.

We have built a deep portfolio of AVV-based gene therapy product candidates, with five product candidates in clinical trials: 4D-150 for the treatment of wet age-related macular degeneration (wet AMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME), 4D-710 for the treatment of cystic fibrosis lung disease, 4D-310 for the treatment of Fabry disease cardiomyopathy, 4D-125 for the treatment of X-linked retinitis pigmentosa (XLRP), and 4D-110 for the treatment of choroideremia. In addition, we have two product candidates in preclinical studies: 4D-175 for geographic atrophy (GA) and 4D-725 for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

To-date, we have demonstrated clinical proof-of-concept for three evolved vectors in three therapeutic areas and routes of administration with five products and patient populations. We believe this validates the power of our directed evolution platform for discovering superior vectors compared to wildtype viral vectors. We have built a robust and efficient product engine with 6 open Investigational New Drug Applications (INDs) in the U.S., 1 IND in Taiwan, and 1 Clinical Trial Approval (CTA) in Australia. We believe we are positioned to create, develop, manufacture and, if approved, effectively commercialize targeted genetic medicines that could transform the lives of patients suffering from debilitating diseases.

In addition to TVE, our technology includes a robust AAV manufacturing platform and onsite manufacturing facility that allows us to rapidly produce and test research grade material and scale up to GMP clinical material. This internal capability and close collaboration between our R&D and Manufacturing teams has greatly accelerated the pace of discovery at 4DMT.

Company Differentiators:

• Fully integrated clinical-phase company with internal manufacturing
• Demonstrated ability to move rapidly from idea to IND
• Five candidate products in the clinic and two declared pre-clinical programs
• Robust technology and IP foundation, including our TVE and manufacturing platforms
• Initial product safety and efficacy data substantiates the value of our platforms
• Opportunities to expand to other indications and modalities within genetic medicine

GENERAL SUMMARY: 

As a Scientist in Vector Innovation you will contribute to improvements to our Therapeutic Vector Evolution platform primarily in novel AAV library design, production, and screening in support of the discovery of novel therapeutic AAV vectors. You will work closely with the entire Vector Innovation & Human Cell and Disease Modelling team onsite to ensure our platform continues to yield best in class novel AAV capsids.

RESPONSIBILITIES:  

Lab Activities: 75% of TIME

Design and generate new AAV capsid libraries using various diversification techniques
Contribute to the improvement and execution of AAV capsid library screening and selection platform including NHP tissue processing, episomal recovery and sequencing
Independently and effectively design and execute experiments to test new libraries and detection techniques
Draft study designs, protocols, and maintain an electronic lab notebook
Design and execute experiments to meet strict timelines
Additional responsibilities defined by management

Cross Functional Meetings/Communication: 25% of TIME

Contribute scientific ideas and knowledge in departmental and cross-functional team meetings
Effectively present findings at departmental and cross-functional team meetings
Engage in Vector Innovation study designs for various projects
Present annually at Non-Clinical R&D meeting
Help compile data and author reports for internal and external communication
Communicate effectively with management and their team to achieve departmental and personal goals

QUALIFICATIONS: 

Education: 

Ph.D. in a relevant scientific field, preferably Virology, Molecular Biology, Genetics or Biochemistry. Exceptional candidates with a Master’s degree and/or significant experience in the AAV gene-therapy will also be considered.

Experience: 

5+ years of experience within Biotech or similar industry or relevant academic experience
5+ years of experience in Molecular Biology and cell culturing
Experience in the AAV gene therapy field is preferred

Technical Skills: 

Strong in molecular biology techniques, virus handling and transduction
Solid background in library design, production, and high-throughput screening, with a preference for experience in RNA and DNA-based AAV library design and screening
Knowledge about AAV biology, particularly AAV capsid binding, cell integration and localization to the nucleus
Basic cell culture: adherent, suspension, transfection
Protein identification through Western blotting, flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry
Microscopy and use of imaging software
NGS sequence analysis and bioinformatics experience is ideal but not necessary

Non-technical Skills

Demonstrated ability to clearly convey complex scientific information to diverse audiences, both verbally and written
Proven capability to work harmoniously within multidisciplinary teams, sharing knowledge and contributing to a positive team dynamic.
Flexibility in responding to changes in priorities or projects and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced research environment.
Creative and critical thinking skills to identify solutions to scientific challenges, with a willingness to explore various approaches.
Strong time-management and prioritization skills, enabling efficient progress on multiple tasks or projects simultaneously.
A commitment to precision in experimental design, data analysis, and documentation, ensuring the integrity and reliability of research findings.
The resilience to persist through setbacks and challenges, maintaining focus on achieving long-term research goals.
An eagerness to learn and stay informed about the latest developments and technologies in the field of AAV gene therapy.
A strong sense of ethical responsibility and adherence to regulatory standards and safety protocols in research.
Excellent ability to foster and maintain professional relationships, characterized by empathy, respect, and effective communication.

Base salary compensation range:

Bay Area Range: $130,000/yr - $154,000/yr

Please note that compensation varies on a variety of factors including experience, location, etc.

4DMT provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, status as a covered veteran, and any other category protected under applicable federal, state, provincial and local laws.

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