Manager, Formulation Research

Join the Spark Team

We were born of innovation, springing from the curiosity, imagination and dedication of remarkable scientists and healthcare visionaries. Our shared mission is to unlock the power of gene therapy to accelerate healthcare transformation. 

We don’t follow footsteps. We create the path.

Primary Duties

Spark Therapeutics is seeking a highly talented individual to lead the Formulation discovery team within the New Therapeutic Modalities group. The Formulation Research Lead will manage multiple research programs where s/he will define and find solutions to challenges posed by gene delivery. Responsibilities will include directing and overseeing discovery programs that support translational research of gene therapies enabling existing and future therapeutic programs. Specifically, these will involve implementing strategies to overcome limitations of current gene therapy approaches by leveraging a strong understanding of targeted nucleic acid delivery methods. A robust background in gene delivery systems, including non-viral vectors and analytical and characterization techniques is required. The Formulation Research Lead will be responsible for expanding and/or developing novel formulations and capabilities related to non-viral gene transfer including:

• Directing and overseeing discovery programs to facilitate translation from in vitro through in vivo proof-of-concept in small and large animal models
• Developing novel bioengineering and formulation strategies to generate non-viral vectors with desired tissue/cell-specific tropism and/or enhanced functional delivery properties.
• Synthesizing, screening and/or engineering targeted formulations in support of non-viral delivery platforms for current and future gene therapy programs
• Initiating and overseeing cross-functional programs within the company and collaborations across the Roche network, as well as external academic and industry partners.
• Providing leadership within a group of scientists/research associates
• Establishing and managing project timelines and ensuring work is completed according to schedule.
• Training and developing staff at varying levels of experience.
• Writing study reports, manuscripts and presenting results at appropriate scientific meetings.

Responsibilities

Lead a team of scientists initiating and developing discovery programs through to preclinical development. Mentor and develop staff. Ensure individual goals and objectives are aligned to departmental and organizational goals and objectives.

Devise and evaluate novel strategies to address limitations of current non-viral gene therapy approaches through novel design, engineering and screening of biomaterials and formulation parameters. Design and trouble-shoot experiments based on personal experience and literature review. Prepare study reports and deliver scientific presentations at internal and external meetings.

Set project priorities, plan workload, manage resource and personnel scheduling

Participate in evaluation of external business development and collaboration opportunities.

Hands-on execution of experiments on the bench.

Education and Experience Requirements

• Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g. Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical/Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, etc.).
• Typically has 5+ years of related work experience related to nanoparticle formulation and/or bioengineering. 
• Subject matter expert in the fields of nucleic acid therapeutics and/or targeted delivery.
• Hands-on research experience with designing novel biomaterial libraries (e.g. lipids, polymers, etc.) and evaluating these using high-throughput screening and selection schemes.
• Experience using various in vitro expression systems and in vivo models.
• Experience in gene therapy and/or in key therapeutic areas, such as hematologic, metabolic, ocular or CNS disorders is preferred.
• Previous manager experience preferred but not required.
• Strong publication record is a plus.
• Experience managing CROs and external collaborations is a plus.

Spark takes into consideration a combination of candidate’s education, training, and experience as well as the position’s scope and complexity, the discretion and latitude required in the role, and external market and internal value when determining a salary for potential new employees.  The base salary range for this position is currently from $120,500 to $180,700.

Spark Therapeutics does not accept unsolicited resumes/candidate profiles from any source other than directly from candidates. Any unsolicited resume/candidate profile submitted through our website or to personal email accounts of employees of Spark Therapeutics are considered property of Spark Therapeutics and are not subject to payment of agency fees.