Visterra Inc.: Senior Research Associate

Visterra is a clinical stage biotechnology company committed to developing innovative antibody-based therapies for the treatment of patients with kidney diseases and other hard-to-treat diseases. Our proprietary technology platform enables the design and engineering of precision antibody-based product candidates that specifically bind to, and modulate, key disease targets. The platform includes Fc engineering capabilities for extended half-life, multispecific antibodies, antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) and other novel formats. Applying this technology to disease targets that are not adequately addressed by traditional therapeutic approaches, we are developing a robust pipeline of novel therapies for patients with unmet needs.Visterra is a wholly owned subsidiary of Otsuka America, Inc., which is a U.S. holding company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. of Japan.Visterra has approximately 90 employees and is in Waltham, Massachusetts.SummaryVisterra, Inc., is looking to hire a highly motivated Research Associate to provide key scientific support to our in vivo biology and pharmacology team within research. Reporting to the Principal Scientist, Research, this individual will play a key technical role in advancing Visterra’s early and late-stage research programs in nephrology, autoimmunity, neurology, and other related areas of therapeutic interest through the informed use of in vivo animal models to both evaluate the efficacy and pharmacology of drug candidate leads as well as gain insight into key biological targets and mechanisms related to disease.In addition, such research will serve as a key bridge to preclinical studies enabled through the exploratory use of such models and related screening tools to guide appropriate model selection and their translational relevance to human disease.The ideal candidate should have a B.S./M.S. degree in biology, biotechnology, veterinary sciences or related field and 3+ years (post-graduate) of research experience, preferably in a biotech or pharmaceutical setting. This position will require directly working with small animals (such as mice and rats) as well as conducting “at the laboratory bench” in vitro and ex vivo experiments related to these in vivo studies.This is a full-time laboratory-based position located at Visterra’s Research and Development Office in Waltham, MA.Travel to and from local CROs is expected.Training will be provided. Occasional work on weekends is anticipated. ResponsibilitiesSupport and lead in vivo procedures and studies involving the use of rodents.Process collected biological samples for in-vitro and ex-vivo analysis.Conduct in vitro experiments and ex vivo analyses of biological materials using various immune related, cell based, or function-based assays and related methods such as flow cytometry, high content screening, and protein binding assays.Cell culture of primary and established cell lines.Analyze and summarize key data sets, results, and research updates for internal review.Maintain detailed records of experimental protocols, designs, and data in electronic laboratory notebook format and in accordance with company policies.RequirementsA bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in biochemistry, biology, biotechnology, veterinary sciences, immunology or related field, and 3+ years of post-graduate laboratory-based research in the biotechnology/pharmaceutical sector is required.Proficiency in small animal handling, including drug dosing by various routes of administration, preparation of test compounds, blood/urine collection, necropsy, and tissue collection.Familiarity and hands-on experience in immune based binding assays (ELISA, Western blot) and flow cytometry.Proficiency in aseptic cell culture (mammalian cell lines and/or primary cells).Adherence to protocols and IACUC guidelines.Proficient use of commonly used software for data analysis (Excel, GraphPad).Ability to write research reports and protocols as needed.Detailed-oriented, team-oriented, and enthusiasm to work in a fast-paced research environment.Local travel (up to 20%) to CROs is required.Preferred QualificationsTissue processing and workflows for histology.Small animal surgery and procedures.Basic molecular cloning experience and familiarity with PCR, RT PCR, and related methods.Experience in the use of light microscopy and confocal microscopy.Basic immunology and experience in mouse related models of immune mediated diseases such as autoimmunity, immune-oncology, or transplant.Visterra provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.