Title: Contract Scientist (iPSC-Derived Gut Models)

Overview: 

• We are seeking a hands-on Contract Scientist with strong experimental biology expertise to advance iPSC-derived gut models for evaluating combination therapies for inflammatory diseases (e.g., IBD).
• Working closely with DAGS, Immunology, and Pharmacology colleagues, the contractor will culture and differentiate human iPSCs into intestinal lineages (e.g., epithelial monolayers and 3D organoids/enteroids), establish microphysiological systems, and design and execute combination therapy studies.
• The successful candidate will optimize functional assays, perform dose–response and matrixed combination experiments, analyze synergy/antagonism, and deliver clear, actionable data packages to cross-functional teams.
• The contractor is expected to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic early discovery environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Develop, optimize, and execute iPSC-derived gut model systems:
   • Differentiation of iPSCs into 3D intestinal organoids.
   • Co-cultures with immune cells (e.g., macrophages, dendritic cells, T cells), and 3D organoid model system.
   • Microphysiological platforms to model barrier and tissue microenvironment.
2. Design and run combination therapy studies:
   • Plan mono- and pairwise/multi-drug matrices; include biologics, small molecules, and pathway-targeted agents.
   • Execute dose-response and time-course experiments; incorporate inflammatory stimuli (e.g., cytokine cocktails, bacterial products) to model disease-relevant contexts.
   • Analyze combination effects for synergy/additivity/antagonism and generate decision-enabling summaries.
3. Apply quantitative, mechanism-informed readouts:
   • Barrier integrity and function assays (TEER, permeability, wound healing, mucus layer assays).
   • Inflammatory and cell-state profiling (cytokine/chemokine panels via ELISA/MSD, qPCR/RT-qPCR, flow cytometry, high-content imaging, immunofluorescence).
   • Transcriptomic profiling (bulk or single cell preferred) for pathway engagement; collaborate with data scientists for analysis.
4. Implement perturbations and model qualification:
   • Genetic and pharmacological perturbations to dissect mechanisms and predict combination responsiveness.
   • Assess reproducibility, dynamic range, and throughput; adapt assays to plate-based formats (96-/384-well) and support automation readiness.
5. Collaborate cross-functionally:
   • Partner with immunology, pharmacology, and data science teams to prioritize combinations, refine hypotheses, and align in vitro models with translational endpoints.
   • Present experimental plans and results to internal stakeholders, including senior leadership; maintain rigorous documentation and SOPs.
6. Ensure compliance with safety practices and proper maintenance of cell lines, reagents, and equipment.

Must Haves: 

• iPSC stem cells
• Running lab techniques
• Cell sorting techniques
• MS office suite
• Lab facing role
• Hands-on scientist needed. 

Nice to Have: 

• Immunology is preferred.
• 3D culture system experience is preferred.
• R programming for quantifying proteomics.

Personality:

• Reliable person
• Detail oriented
• Adaptable
• Following aseptic processes
• Dedicated
• Collaborative mindset
• Strong communication skills
• Follows SOP's