Viral Vector Staff Scientist

About the Role

KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology) is seeking a Viral Vector Staff Scientist to join its team in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. This full-time role involves supporting the strategic goals of the Bio-Medical platform by designing, producing, and delivering high-quality viral vectors for research at KAUST and within the region. The Staff Scientist will optimize production workflows, enhance vector performance and cost-efficiency, and ensure adherence to strict quality and biosafety standards.

Role Context and Objectives

The Viral Vector Staff Scientist will be a skilled molecular biologist with expertise in viral vector engineering and production. This position requires the ability to translate complex experimental needs into tailored genetic tools and to drive innovation in vector design and delivery. The scientist will collaborate with researchers, supervise technical staff, and provide advanced training in molecular genetics and viral vector technologies, contributing to KAUST's position as a regional hub for viral vector solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with researchers to identify and implement appropriate viral vector systems for scientific questions, supporting high-impact research.
• Produce high-quality, safe, and effective viral vectors (*, AAVs and Lentivirus) tailored to experimental needs and cell-based research.
• Supervise and mentor laboratory technicians, managing daily tasks to ensure timely and high-quality deliverables.
• Coordinate multiple research projects and timelines to ensure milestones and deliverables are met.
• Develop, implement, and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure efficiency, reproducibility, and compliance in viral vector production.
• Ensure Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and maintain a safe working environment in accordance with biosafety regulations and Institutional Biosafety and Ethics Committee (IBEC) guidelines.
• Integrate laboratory data into the Bio-Medical Platform and collaborate with IT and bioinformatics teams for effective data management, analysis, and reporting.
• Design and implement new or improved techniques and workflows to address scientific challenges, enhance viral vector performance and throughput, and reduce production costs.
• Provide advanced training in viral vector production and contribute to building technical expertise among staff.
• Conduct routine laboratory responsibilities, including procurement, documentation, equipment maintenance, and participation in task forces and institutional committees.

Qualifications and Experience

• Expertise in viral vector engineering and production.
• A minimum of 5-10 years of relevant experience is required.
• Strong background in molecular biology.

Work Environment

This is a full-time position based in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, within the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). The role involves working within a research-intensive environment, collaborating with diverse scientific teams and technical staff.

Application Information

The salary for this position will be disclosed during the application process. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.