[Hiring] Scientist, Functional Genomics, Virtual Cell Initiative @Arc Institute

Role Description We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Scientist with a strong background in functional genomics and single-cell sequencing to join the Virtual Cell Initiative at Arc Institute. The initiative aims to create the first foundational model that makes accurate predictions of cellular states and their response to intervention.

• Lead the generation of massive single-cell perturbation datasets across 50+ cancer cell lines to train Virtual Cell models.
• Responsible for the end-to-end experimental workflow—from mammalian cell culture and large-scale CRISPR screening to single-cell library preparation and sequencing.
• Exceptional project management capabilities, proficient in organizing complex data streams and adhering to timelines.
• Collaborate daily with other wet lab scientists, automation engineers, and computational biologists.
• Bridge the gap between experimental biology and computational innovation.

Qualifications

• PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, or another relevant field.
• 0-3 years of post-PhD experience in academia or industry.
• Extensive experience with large-scale pooled CRISPR screening, preferably with scRNA-seq readouts (e.g. Perturb-seq, CROP-seq).
• Expertise in mammalian cell culture and ability to manage multiple cell lines simultaneously.
• Experience in multi-color flow cytometry.
• Experience with mammalian cell line engineering using transfection, lentivirus production and transduction, and other common approaches.
• Experience with different molecular biology techniques (cloning, PCR, etc).
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and in a highly collaborative multidisciplinary environment.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to independently plan, execute, and deliver results on time.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Requirements

• Hands-on experience with downstream genomics protocols, especially scRNA-seq (preferably 10X Genomics workflows).
• Experience designing and cloning large pooled CRISPR sgRNA libraries.
• Experience optimizing different CRISPR-Cas9 effector systems, such as CRISPRi and CRISPRa, including vector design and delivery.
• Experience performing FACS-based cell sorting.
• Ability to analyze large datasets using Python, R, or similar tools.
• Familiarity with different NGS technologies (Illumina, Ultima).
• Experience using automation to scale, streamline, and optimize large-scale experiments.

Benefits

• The base salary range for this position is $121,250 - $159,500.
• This position is also eligible to receive an annual discretionary bonus, with the amount dependent on individual and institute performance factors.