At Roche, we believe it’s urgent to deliver medical solutions right now – even as we develop innovations for the future. We are passionate about transforming patients’ lives and we are ambitious in both decision and action. And we believe that good business means a better world. That is why we come to work every single day. We commit ourselves to scientific rigor, unassailable ethics, and access to medical innovations for all. We do this today to build a better tomorrow.
Within Roche’s Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Neuroscience & Rare Diseases represents a major focus area where we are committed to realizing our long-term vision of changing lives of patients with severe brain disorders. Our research and early development activities center around large and rare indications within the four major pillars of neurodevelopmental disorders, movement disorders, dementias, and multiple sclerosis. With strengths across diverse disciplines, Roche is uniquely positioned to lead in transforming science to medicines for patients with disorders of the nervous system.
To achieve our goals, Roche pRED Neuroscience & Rare Diseases is currently undergoing a major and exciting recruitment effort for a large number of new positions to further build our discovery engine for the next generation of transformative therapies. Among these we are seeking a Discovery Scientist in Genetics & Functional Genomics in the section of Neurogenomics within the Department of Research. All positions are based in Basel, Switzerland.
The position
We are seeking a highly motivated and collaborative Discovery Scientist to join the Functional Genomics laboratory within the Neurogenomics section to develop the next generation of functional genomics efforts across the Neuroscience and Rare Diseases (NRD) organization. Neurogenomics in NRD spans the interface of human genetics, single cell genomics, functional genomics, molecular biology, and advanced computational methodology.
In this role, you will be joining a team of researchers working at the cutting edge of human genetics and functional genomics in a highly collaborative environment to identify new hypotheses for therapeutic target identification and target validation to advance transformative medicines for neurodevelopmental disorders, dementias, movement disorders and multiple sclerosis.
You will lead efforts to screen complex patient-derived models using novel functional genomics tools and single-cell technologies. To accelerate such work, the successful candidate will focus on the development, optimization, and implementation of CRISPR screens in patient-derived 2D cell models, 3D organoids, spheroids, and potentially other complex culture models using conventional as well as novel read-outs.
Implement state-of-the art CRISPR/Cas9-based genome-wide modifier screens in human iPSC derived cellular models in support of existing and new drug discovery programs in NRD.
Perform research to develop new assays for investigating genetic interaction networks in hiPSC derived neuronal models to identify biological pathways of convergence of disease risk genes.
Perform research to develop and implement targeted imaging based CRISPR based genetic screens in hiPSC derived neuronal models to identify regulators of disease relevant subcellular phenotypes such as transcription factor translocation into the nucleus, protein localization to cellular substructures or mislocalization of proteins into disease-associated aggregates.
Propose experiments to validate multiple, novel targets in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases in human iPSC models.
Work cross-functionally with computational biologists, neurobiologists and chemists to make strategic target recommendations.
Propose target genes for experimental prosecution and select appropriate assays to validate each target and the biological hypothesis.
Develop clear biological hypotheses for target genes, then establish and validate their mechanism of action.
Essential
PhD in neuroscience, molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics or related discipline, with minimum 2 years of CRISPR based screen experience in an academic postdoctoral or industry setting.
Proven expertise in the manipulation of cell-lines, human iPSC derived cellular models, and hands-on experience in performing genome-wide CRIPSR screens using a range of cell-based assays, including FACS analysis.
Experience with large-scale screening assays is required.
Motivated to interrogate important disease biology questions in difficult and complex model systems with an aptitude to try new multiple gene editing technologies.
Strong record of independent research and publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Desirable
Experience with delivery techniques for CRISPR based gene editing ex-vivo.
Experience working collaboratively with computational teams.
Experience with single-cell profiling, microscopy and in the analysis of NGS data would be an advantage.
Excellent oral and written communication skills, and able to thrive in high functioning team environments.
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Research & Development, Research & Development > Research