Senior Scientist, Cell and Gene Therapy

Company Overview Mucommune, LLC is an integrated biotechnology company that builds on nearly a decade of pioneering R D on mucosal immunotherapeutics. The company operates a unique R D model that matures platform technologies and advances them to clinical-stage assets via strategic spinoffs, including Inhalon Biopharma, a clinical-stage biotech that has raised nearly $60M to date. Leveraging its strong scientific foundation, Mucommune has expanded its R D efforts into in vivo engineered immune cell therapies, supported in part by up to $29.4M in ARPA-H funding, along with multiple additional federal grants. Our mission is to translate our innovative immunoengineering technologies into transformative therapeutic platforms that address significant unmet medical needs while simultaneously reducing cost and access barriers. In this role, you will join a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers developing next-generation in vivo engineered CAR-T therapies. Position Summary The Senior Scientist will be responsible for leading and executing a broad range of research activities to advance Mucommune's in vivo CAR-T cell therapy programs.

This includes:

(i) generating and testing novel viral vector constructs; (ii) developing, optimizing, and implementing analytical methods to characterize and release lentiviral vector-based gene therapy products, and (iii) advancing in-house research capabilities to develop and optimize in vivo CAR-T therapies. The successful candidate will be hands-on in the lab and, as needed, support the management of internal and external research efforts, ensuring scientific rigor, operational efficiency, and program success. Job Responsibilities Lead the design, generation and characterization of novel lentiviral vectors for efficient T-cell reprogramming Design, execute, and interpret laboratory experiments involving immune cell culture, cancel cell culture, genetic engineering, and biochemical or cell-based assays. Design and perform in-house studies to support upstream and downstream process development for viral vector manufacturing at CDMOs Develop, qualify, and validate analytical methods to characterize the physical, genomic, and functional properties of viral vectors. Manage or coordinate studies conducted by CROs or academic collaborators as needed, including activities related to stable cell line development, vector production and purification, and preclinical studies. Conduct literature reviews to identify relevant scientific advances and assess emerging technologies Apply strong scientific reasoning and analytical skills to design experiments, analyze data, draw conclusions, and prepare technical reports, manuscripts, and grant proposals. Contribute to the preparation and maintenance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and support regulatory filings as needed. Supervise and mentor junior scientific staff to ensure timely execution of experimental work with high quality. Support general laboratory operations, including reagent sourcing, equipment procurement, and compliance with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) and other applicable regulations.

Qualifications Education:

B.S./M.S.

(≥10 years of relevant work experience) or Ph.D. (≥5 years of relevant work experience) in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, or a related discipline.

Technical Skills:

Proficiency in mammalian cell culture and viral vector-mediated gene delivery. Hands-on experience with molecular biology and biochemical techniques such as expression construct design, cloning, PCR/ddPCR, ELISA, Western blotting, gel electrophoresis, and flow cytometry. Experience with developing, qualifying/validating analytical methods to characterize the physical, genomic, and functional properties of viral vectors. Familiarity with cell-based assays and functional characterization of engineered immune cells is a plus. Experience with production and purification of lentiviral vectors is a plus. Prior experience in an industry or translational research environment is desired.

Other Requirements:

Adaptable, proactive, and committed to maintaining high scientific and professional standards. Resilient, resourceful, and excited to take on challenges in a dynamic startup environment. Strong work ethic, with reliability, accountability, and ownership of deliverables. Demonstrates initiative, sound judgment, and professionalism. Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects and tasks. Demonstrates ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. Strong oral and written communication skills.