Postdoctoral Fellow - Cell Line Development (rAAV/HEK293)

TL;DR

Postdoctoral Fellow - Cell Line Development (rAAV/HEK293): Developing a HEK293 “Super-Host” platform to improve rAAV production by identifying and overcoming biological bottlenecks with an accent on multi-omics analysis, CRISPR/Cas9 and advanced molecular/genetic engineering. Focus on systematically modifying the HEK293 host to tolerate intensive viral replication and deliver better rAAV titers and quality.

Company

hirify.global is a biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing medicines for serious and life-threatening diseases.

What you will do

• Develop and optimize a HEK293 “Super-Host” platform for rAAV production.
• Identify biological bottlenecks limiting viral yields, including intrinsic host cell responses and cellular limitations.
• Apply advanced molecular and genetic engineering approaches (including CRISPR/Cas9) to overcome bottlenecks.
• Use multi-omics and systems biology tools to understand host responses and guide engineering strategies.
• Evaluate outcomes using rAAV production, purification, and characterization assays (e.g., full-to-empty ratio, potency, sequencing-based characterization).
• Collaborate across internal research groups, present work to project teams, and contribute to scientific publications.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, virology, biotechnology, bioengineering, chemical engineering, or a related discipline.
• 0+ years of industry experience.
• Demonstrated excellence via at least one advanced key research project evidenced by a first-author paper published or accepted in a leading peer-reviewed journal.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team.
• Independent scientist mindset with a strong commitment to science and bioprocess innovation.

Nice to have

• Hands-on mammalian cell culture experience, specifically with HEK293 cells.
• Experience with stable cell line generation.
• Experience with vector design, cloning, and genetic engineering (e.g., CRISPR/Cas9, transposon-mediated systems).
• Experience with systems biology technologies (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics).
• Relevant experience in rAAV production, purification, and characterization (e.g., full-to-empty ratio measurement, mass photometry, potency assay, long-read sequencing).

Culture & Benefits

• Relocation benefits available for this position.
• Part of the hirify.global post-doctoral training program with mentorship and support.
• Fully funded research expenses and competitive salaries.
• Access to seminars, professional development workshops, and networking opportunities.

Hiring process

• Application review followed by interviews and evaluation of research fit and communication skills.
• Discussion of project alignment and expectations for the postdoctoral program.

Location: South San Francisco, California, United States of America

Salary: $100,000–$106,500 (expected range based on California primary location)