High-Throughput Functional Genomics (Discovery) Lead

<p><strong>Position Summary</strong></p> <p>We are seeking a visionary, hands-on scientific leader to drive our high-throughput functional genomics discovery platform. In this role, you will collaborate closely with experimental and computational teams across Neptune, manage and develop a high-performing group of scientists and research associates, and lead the onboarding and scale-up of next-generation single-cell screening technologies. You will serve as a technical authority in genomics technologies across the organization and play a central role in enabling large-scale screening for Neptune’s discovery engine—building a unique data moat that powers rapid and continuous target identification.</p> <p>The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in advanced single-cell CRISPR screening and sequencing technologies, combined with strong people leadership, project management experience, and a demonstrated ability to deliver large-scale projects under tight timelines. This role requires a highly collaborative, team-oriented mindset with a focus on generating high-quality results at speed.</p> <h4><strong>About You</strong></h4> <ul> <li>Scientific expert and team leader: You bring deep expertise in advanced single-cell and CRISPR screening technologies and have a strong track record of building and mentoring high-performing scientific teams through clear goals, execution, and guidance.</li> <li>Systems thinker and process optimizer: You think naturally at scale - building&nbsp; efficient workflows, and enabling large-volume research while balancing scientific rigor with operational demands.</li> <li>Results-driven: You thrive in fast-paced environments with tight deadlines, excel at prioritization, and consistently deliver complex projects on time within high-throughput settings..</li> <li>Collaborative Team-player: You enjoy leading and mentoring a team of research scientists and associates, and you excel at working across experimental, computational, and operational teams to achieve shared goals.&nbsp;</li> <li>Adaptable learner: You stay current with emerging genomics technologies, apply sound judgment when adopting innovations, and can pivot strategies effectively to meet evolving organizational needs</li> </ul> <p><strong>Key Responsibilities</strong></p> <ul> <li>Act as a key individual contributor in a highly collaborative team, providing hands-on expertise in the lab to de-risk new technologies and scale up robust workflows for our high-throughput single-cell screening platform</li> <li>Plan, manage, and execute a large-scale target discovery initiative focused on high-throughput single-cell CRISPR screening in vitro (2D and 3D) and in vivo</li> <li>Manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, ensuring timely execution under tight deadlines</li> <li>Lead, mentor, and manage a dedicated team of scientists and senior research associates, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific rigor</li> <li>Spearhead the identification, evaluation, and implementation of cutting-edge technologies to enhance the speed, scale, and quality of our target discovery campaigns</li> <li>Drive the design, execution, and optimization of sophisticated screening assays and technology development projects that directly impact program objectives</li> <li>Develop and champion the strategic vision for technology innovation within our target discovery platform, staying current with rapidly evolving scientific fields and identifying, evaluating, and implementing new methodologies</li> <li>Oversee experimental design, protocol development, and resource allocation across the target discovery platform to ensure project milestones and scientific objectives are met</li> <li>Effectively analyze and present data, clearly communicating research plans, progress, and timelines to the team</li> <li>Present scientific findings, project updates, and strategic proposals to internal and external stakeholders, contributing to publications and intellectual property filings</li> <li>Collaborate closely with the CompBio team to build robust screening workflows, and maintain detailed, well-organized, and timely documentation of experiments and data</li> </ul> <p><strong>Qualification</strong><strong>&nbsp;and Education Requirements</strong></p> <p><em>You must have:</em></p> <ul> <li>PhD, MD, or MD/PhD in genomics, biomedical engineering, molecular biology, or a related field, with training in high-throughput single-cell methodologies and next-generation sequencing</li> <li>3–5+ years of relevant experience in academia, biotechnology, or the pharmaceutical industry</li> <li>Prior experience in a leadership or mentorship role, with a demonstrated ability to manage and develop Ph.D. level scientists effectively</li> <li>Proven record of delivering large, complex projects under tight deadlines in fast-paced, high-throughput environments</li> <li>Demonstrated hands-on expertise and a strong, proven track record in genome engineering, CRISPR screening design, and high-throughput single-cell functional genomics</li> <li>Deep expertise in molecular biology, biomedical engineering, high-content CRISPR screening, and single-cell genomics, supported by several years of academic or industry experience</li> <li>Extensive knowledge of NGS library preparation workflows and the computational aspects of multi-omic profiling</li> <li>Experience with a wide range of biological systems, including mammalian cell culture, primary cells, and complex cellular models (e.g., 3D organoid cultures and mouse models) relevant to biologics discovery</li> <li>Experience with—or strong enthusiasm for—working at the interface of biology and data science, with the ability to collaborate effectively with AI/ML and computational scientists</li> <li>Strong problem-solving abilities and an aptitude for innovation</li> <li>Ability to adapt quickly to shifting priorities while delivering high-quality, detail-oriented results on time</li> <li>A high degree of teamwork and a collaborative mindset, along with the ability to work independently</li> </ul> <p><em>Additional preferred experience includes:</em></p> <ul> <li>Industry experience post-PhD is desirable</li> <li>Experience implementing process improvements and automation in production settings</li> <li>Willingness to quickly discover and learn new methods and approaches</li> <li>High motivation, with a strong work ethic and dedication to generating impact.</li> <li>Experience with computational data handling, processing, and analysis</li> <li>Long-term personal vision with defined career goals.</li> <li>Outstanding written and verbal communication skills</li> </ul>