ARO BIOTHERAPEUTICS

Join the team at Aro Biotherapeutics creating breakthrough biotherapeutics based on Centyrin oligonucleotide conjugates. Centyrins are small protein domains based on the fibronectin domains of human Tenascin C that combine the affinity and specificity properties of antibodies with the stability and tissue penetration properties of small molecules. We have engineered Centyrins with an array of specificities for normal and immune cell receptors. By linking Centyrin domains together genetically, we have created multi-specific binders that retain a small footprint to enable excellent tissue penetration. Engineered for high stability, multi-specific Centyrins are readily expressed and purified from E. coli or mammalian cells.

We are developing a platform for delivery of an array of intracellularly active payloads with a focus on oligonucleotides. Our team has built a strong set of in vitro and in vivo data validating the utility of Centyrins for receptor specific uptake in a variety of cell types. Centyrin conjugate mediated delivery provides the foundation for access to a set of intracellular targets that have long been considered undruggable.

Aro is building a wholly owned portfolio of Centyrin oligonucleotide conjugates for genetic and autoimmune diseases and developing a partnered portfolio of Centyrin conjugates for payload delivery in a variety of disease areas. Led by an experienced team, Aro is backed by an exceptional syndicate that supports our commitment to advancing drug candidates with the potential to improve patients' lives and to building an ideal environment for scientific and leadership growth.

POSITION DESCRIPTION – INVESTIGATOR/PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR, RNA BIOLOGY

Aro is building a growing research team to develop novel Centyrin-based therapeutics. In this role, you will become a foundational member of the team. The ideal candidate will have a good understanding of RNA biology, cell biology, and molecular biology. Reporting to the Senior Director, Biology, this role will involve dissecting mechanisms of oligonucleotide-mediated knockdown, endosomal escape, and developing innovative approaches to improve the efficacy of Centyrin-oligonucleotide conjugates. This role requires 50-75% bench work, with the opportunity to manage a team of scientists. You will have the opportunity to contribute directly to the company's target validation and drug discovery efforts.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• PhD in cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, or related discipline with 1-6 years of post-graduate research experience

• Proven track record of success with publications in RNA biology and/or oligonucleotide therapeutics

• Experience generating and analyzing qPCR data from both in vitro and in vivo experiments

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, as this role will involve presentations to Aro's scientific and leadership teams, as well as the potential to present at external meetings

• Firm understanding of oligonucleotide modalities including siRNAs and ASOs

• Must be capable of working in a highly collaborative and dynamic environment

• Understanding of muscle cell biology and related diseases is a plus

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead company efforts to elucidate mechanisms of Centyrin-oligonucleotide conjugate trafficking in cells
• Develop and implement innovative methods for oligo and quantification in tissues
• Improve upon existing methods for measurement of gene and protein knockdown in pharmacodynamic studies
• Contribute to efforts to build PK/PD relationships in vitro and in vivo
• Function as a key member of a fast-paced drug discovery team
• Maintain rigorous records and ELN entries
• Generate study reports for inclusion in IND filings
• Regularly present work to internal project teams and Leadership
• Management of scientific staff