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Aura Biosciences

Senior Associate Scientist (Bio/Immunoassay) – Analytical Development

Aura Biosciences, Boston, Massachusetts, us, 02298


About Aura:

Aura Biosciences is a clinical stage oncology company. We are developing a novel technology platform based on virus-like drug conjugates (VDCs) to target and destroy cancer cells selectively, while activating the immune system to create long lasting anti-tumor immunity.

We have a goal of developing this technology in multiple cancer indications, focusing initially on two therapeutic areas – ocular oncology and bladder cancer – with a goal to expand into other areas of solid tumor oncology. Initially we have focused our clinical development in the medical field of ocular oncology, a group of rare diseases that have no drugs approved. We are in Phase 3 with our lead VDC AU-011 in choroidal melanoma. We are also in development in non-muscle invasive and muscle invasive bladder cancer, currently in a Phase 1 trial.

We have commenced a global Phase 3 program investigating the delivery of AU-011 for the treatment of small choroidal melanoma and indeterminate lesions. AU-011 has to date demonstrated an excellent efficacy and safety profile in Phase 2 for choroidal melanoma, and enrolment is ongoing in the pivotal Phase 3 trial.

Position Summary:

This role on the Analytical Sciences (AS) team contributes to Aura’s efforts to develop safe and effective therapies using virus-like particle (VLP)-based technologies. This role is expected to spend 80% at the bench.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Performing assays routinely, e.g., cell-based potency assays, ELISA based assays, binding assay (SPR)-based), protein quantitation assays, gel electrophoresis, etc.

Supporting development of cell-based and immunoassays for biological products.

Data trending and analysis using logistic fitting methods, including software platforms for statistical analysis and presentation.

Other analytical methodologies relevant to qualitative and quantitative characterization of proteins or nanoparticles (e.g., UV/Vis, surface plasmon resonance (SPR), Octet, etc.).

Perform testing of routine development, investigational and troubleshooting samples for multiple assays upon successful training.

Perform product characterization, method qualification to support development release testing, stability studies.

Author and review technical protocols and reports, assay summaries, study design and protocols, SOPs, etc.

Ensure accurate and complete documentation of any scientific experimental plan, data and report.

Establish and maintain familiarity with contemporary industrial standards, practices, technologies, literature and ways of performing lab studies.

Minimum Requirements:

Knowledge, Skills & Capabilities:

Hands-on experience with analytical method development and/or method qualification.

In depth understanding and some hands-on experience in one or more of the following areas is required: Cell-Based cytotoxicity or potency assay, ELISA, spectroscopy (UV/Vis), binding affinity (SPR, Octet, etc.), SDS-PAGE, nanoparticle analysis (NTA, DLS, flow imaging, etc.).

Fundamental understanding of analytical method development, qualification, validation, and transfer to other sites.

Strong communication, critical thinking, technical writing, and problem-solving skills.

Knowledge of statistical methods for DOE design and data analysis (e.g., JMP) is a strong plus.

Ability to author comprehensive and accurate protocols/reports.

Ability to select, implement and use appropriate data management concepts and tools.

Ability to function independently, manage priorities and engage/communicate cross functionally across various teams and meet deadlines with a high tolerance for ambiguity.

Education & Relevant Work Experience:

A MSc degree in a relevant scientific discipline e.g., Analytical Chemistry/Biochemistry, or a BSc degree with 2+ years of biotech industry experience is needed.

Experience in analytical development and testing of antibody-drug conjugate, viral vectors or other biologics would be required.

Experience performing cell-based assays, ELISA-based assays, gel electrophoresis and protein quantitation assays is important.

Physical & Travel Requirements:

Travel to CTLs and CDMOs, as needed (

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