Research Scientist in CRISPR Genomics, Engreitz Lab

Research Scientist in CRISPR Genomics, Engreitz Lab (2 Year Fixed Term) at Stanford University

A Research Scientist in CRISPR Genomics leads large‑scale genomic data projects to uncover the genetic basis of heart diseases. The role involves designing and executing CRISPR perturbation studies, managing collaborations, and contributing to publications and grant writing. This position requires expertise in genomics, molecular biology, data analysis, and team leadership within an interdisciplinary research environment.

DNA regulatory elements in the human genome harbor thousands of genetic risk variants for common and rare heart diseases and could reveal targets for therapeutics that aim to precisely tune cellular functions. Our goal is to map the complex regulatory wiring that connects approximately 2 million regulatory elements with 21,000 genes and the thousands of pathways across diverse heart and vascular cell types.

Recent approaches (e.g., Fulco et al. Science 2016; Fulco et al. Nat Genet 2019; Nasser et al. Nature 2021; Gschwind et al. bioRxiv 2023) have been applied to understand the genetic basis of complex diseases, and we aim to expand these studies systematically.

• Make fundamental discoveries about gene regulation and the genetics of cardiovascular disease
• Design and execute scientific projects together with the PI and other lab members
• Collect comprehensive perturbation datasets to inform genome function and enable training predictive models
• Develop and apply strategies to study enhancers and genes in human cells and mouse models
• Evaluate and recommend emerging technologies, approaches, and new problems
• Supervise, train, and collaborate with other lab members in experimental techniques, scientific design, and other skills
• Design and lead independent projects
• Collaborate with a team of experimentalists and computational biologists
• Create scientifically rigorous visualizations, communications, and presentations of results
• Contribute to the generation of protocols, publications, and intellectual property
• Other duties may be assigned

• Ph.D. in Genetics, Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Bioengineering, Developmental Biology, or a related life‑science field is preferred; highly motivated candidates of all levels are encouraged to apply.
• Expertise in genomics, molecular biology, assay development, and high‑throughput data generation
• Experience with quantitative data analysis
• Experience with CRISPR targeting ES/iPS cells and/or single‑cell technologies is a plus
• Experience in multidisciplinary collaborations, management, and/or supervision
• Curiosity in research, creativity in problem‑solving, and strong interpersonal and collaboration skills
• Outstanding verbal and written communication abilities
• Ability to adapt to and effectively manage changes in a fast‑paced and dynamic environment
• A passion for science and a sense of urgency to find new medicines to benefit patients

• Bachelor's degree in a related scientific field and four years of relevant work experience; or Master's degree in a related scientific field and two years of relevant experience; or Ph.D. in a related science field.

• Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles
• Expert level knowledge and skills in the field of science related to the research project
• General computer skills and experience with databases and scientific applications
• Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to complete detailed work accurately
• Developing project management skills

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat; grasp lightly; perform desk‑based computer tasks; use telephone; write by hand; lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders; sort and file paperwork or parts
• Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls
• Must have correctable vision to perform duties of the job
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder…