Senior Scientist - Genome Editing, Genomic Sciences and Target Discovery
Job Description:
We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly motivated Senior Scientist to join the Genomic Sciences and Target Discovery team within Alkermes R&D, focusing on the application of genome-editing technologies to validate therapeutic hypotheses in vitro and in vivo for central nervous system (CNS) disorders.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, develop, and execute CRISPR-based functional genomics strategies to validate therapeutic hypotheses in vitro and in preclinical models of CNS diseases.
- Utilize CRISPR/Cas9, CRISPRa, and CRISPRi approaches to modulate gene expression and investigate target biology in the context of neuroanatomy and neurocircuitry.
- Develop and optimize CRISPR delivery methodologies, including viral and non-viral delivery systems, for precise gene editing in the CNS.
- Establish and validate CRISPR-edited rodent models using molecular, cellular, and behavioral readouts to assess target engagement and functional outcomes.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with neuroscience, pharmacology, and translational teams to integrate functional genomics insights into drug discovery programs.
- Perform molecular and cellular assays, including PCR, NGS, immunohistochemistry, and single-cell sequencing, to confirm CRISPR-mediated gene modifications.
- Maintain detailed records of experimental design, execution, and data interpretation in accordance with corporate documentation standards.
- Keep abreast of emerging CRISPR technologies and functional genomics advancements to drive innovation within the team.
- Effectively communicate findings and recommendations to internal and external stakeholders.
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Genomics, or a related field with a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in functional genomics, preferably within industry-based CNS drug discovery and development.
- Proficiency in human (Mendelian/population genetics) and model organism genetics
- Expertise in CRISPR-based gene editing techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9, CRISPRa, and CRISPRi.
- Experience with in vivo CRISPR delivery methods such as AAV, lipid nanoparticles, or electroporation for targeting CNS circuits.
- Strong background in neuroanatomy and neurocircuitry, with experience in functional validation of gene edits in preclinical models.
- Proficiency in standard molecular biology and tissue culture techniques, including developing and maintaining CRISPR-edited cell lines.
Familiarity with in vivo rodent models, behavioral assays, and CNS-relevant phenotypic assessments.
- Strong data analysis and interpretation skills, with experience using bioinformatics tools for genomic analysis.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills in a cross-disciplinary research environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, or electrophysiological techniques to assess gene function in CNS models.
- Proficiency with computational tools (Python, R, or Unix CLI) for analyzing CRISPR screening data.
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $151,000 to $170,000. In addition, this position is eligible for an annual performance pay bonus. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, training, knowledge, and experience. Alkermes offers a competitive benefits package. Additional details can be found on our careers website: www.alkermes.com/careers#working-here
This role will be onsite 5 days per week.
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About UsWhy join Team Alkermes?
Alkermes applies its decades of deep neuroscience expertise to develop medicines designed to help people living with complex and difficult-to-treat psychiatric and neurological disorders. A global biopharmaceutical company, headquartered in Ireland with U.S. locations in Massachusetts and Ohio, we seek to make a meaningful difference in the way people manage their diseases. We have a portfolio of proprietary commercial products for the treatment of alcohol dependence, opioid dependence, schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder and narcolepsy, and a pipeline of clinical and preclinical candidates in development for various psychiatric and neurological disorders.
We are proud to have been recognized as an employer of choice by many national organizations. In 2024 and 2025, we were certified as a Great Place to Work in the U.S. and named one of Massachusetts’ Top Places to Work by the Boston Globe, a Best Place to Work in Greater Cincinnati by the Cincinnati Business Courier and recognized as a Best Place to Work in BioPharma by Fortune Magazine.
Alkermes, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any qualified applicant or employee because of race, creed, color, age, national origin, ancestry, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender expression and identity, disability, genetic information, veteran status, military status, application for military service or any other characteristic protected by local, state or federal law. Alkermes also complies with all work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act and IRCA. Alkermes is an E-Verify employer.
Skills Required
- Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Genomics, or a related field
- Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in functional genomics
- Proficiency in human Mendelian and population genetics and model organism genetics
- Expertise in CRISPR/Cas9, CRISPRa, and CRISPRi gene-editing techniques
- Experience with in vivo CRISPR delivery methods, such as AAV, lipid nanoparticles, or electroporation, for CNS circuits
- Strong background in neuroanatomy and neurocircuitry
- Experience functionally validating gene edits in preclinical models
- Proficiency in molecular biology and tissue culture techniques, including developing and maintaining CRISPR-edited cell lines
- Familiarity with in vivo rodent models, behavioral assays, and CNS-relevant phenotypic assessments
- Strong data analysis and interpretation skills, including bioinformatics tools for genomic analysis
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills in a cross-disciplinary research environment
- Experience with single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, or electrophysiological techniques
- Proficiency with Python, R, or Unix CLI for analyzing CRISPR screening data
What We Do
Alkermes focuses on the development of innovative medicines that seek to address unmet needs of people living with serious mental illness, addiction, and cancer. As a fully-integrated, global biopharmaceutical company, we apply our scientific expertise and proprietary technologies to develop products that are designed to make a meaningful difference in the way patients manage their disease. We are inspired by some of the most pressing public health challenges of our time to help advance innovation with the potential to improve treatment options and outcomes for patients. Beyond our important mission of developing medicines, we believe it is our responsibility to take a holistic approach as we seek to support patients, caregivers, and broader impacted communities. In this context we also work to help support and enhance the systems through which these complex diseases are treated. We are committed to patient engagement, disease education and awareness, and advocacy for important policies that support equitable access to quality treatment. Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, we have an R&D center in Waltham, Massachusetts; a research and manufacturing facility in Athlone, Ireland; and a manufacturing facility in Wilmington, Ohio. See our Community Guidelines: https://www.alkermes.com/social-community-guidelines
