Scientist, Avian Cell Engineering

Location: Dallas, TX; the position is based out of Dallas and may require some international travel. Relocation assistance is provided.

Company

hirify.global develops synthetic biology platforms supporting conservation breeding and genetic rescue.

What you will do

• Develop and execute experiments to culture primordial germ cells (PGCs) from non-model avian organisms.
• Collect blood and tissue from avian embryos using a dissection microscope for cell line derivation.
• Test, sort, screen, and expand PGCs using established and newly developed protocols.
• Interpret scRNA-seq and rt-qPCR datasets to develop media formulations tailored to specific avian species.
• Collaborate with the Avian Embryology team to develop protocols for injecting PGCs into early-stage embryos.
• Own PGC derivation and culture milestones, maintain laboratory records, and prepare project reports and presentations.

Requirements

• PhD in biological sciences, stem cell biology, germ cell biology, or a related field.
• Postdoctoral or industry experience in stem cell or germ cell biology.
• Expert knowledge of cell culture, primary cell derivation, and propagation methodologies, preferably involving PGCs.
• Experience optimizing growth media conditions for cell culture.
• Experience staging and manipulating avian embryos, including injection into early-stage embryos.
• Experience in molecular biology, including RNA extraction and qPCR, as well as rt-qPCR and flow cytometry.
• Track record of working closely with computational collaborators to interpret scRNA-seq data.
• Strong written and oral communication, creative problem-solving, analytical skills, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, growth-oriented, nimble, and collaborative startup environment, with strong emotional intelligence and relationship-building skills.

Nice to have

• Experience deriving or culturing PGCs from avian species.
• Previous work optimizing media for challenging cell types.

Culture & Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Flexible spending accounts and a company-matched 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid parental leave at 100% salary for up to 12 weeks.
• Education reimbursement.
• Collaborative, creative, inclusive, and diverse work environment focused on conservation and restoring the health of the Earth.