GlaxoSmithKline is hiring: Expert Scientist, RNA Biology in Rockville

Job Description

Are you motivated by a challenging role in biology, where scientific demand is driving team growth? If so, this Expert Scientist role would be a great opportunity to consider.

The goal of this position is to focus on devising and executing experiments in RNA vaccine discovery and research, with an emphasis on understanding and modifying the secondary and tertiary structures of mRNA vaccine platforms. The successful candidate will study the nucleic acid architecture of the GSK mRNA vaccine platform, integrating state-of-the-art genomics instrumentation and bioinformatics analysis to elucidate how RNA structure impacts biological activity in the context of vaccine immunization.

Key Responsibilities

• Spend approximately 70% of time in the research laboratory conducting experiments.
• Understand, interpret, and communicate complex scientific data to determine next steps.
• Engage with opinion leaders regarding highly technical information.
• Manage multiple projects concurrently as a self-starter.
• Balance creativity with analytical thinking.
• Work productively in a high-intensity environment as a team player.

Basic Qualifications

• Ph.D. with at least 3 years of experience or a Master's with at least 5 years in RNA biochemistry, computational biology, RNA-based vaccines, or related fields.
• Extensive expertise in RNA biochemistry and virology.
• Hands-on experience with RNA footprinting and NGS methods.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics analysis of RNA secondary structure.
• Strong publication record, including at least 3 first-author research papers.
• Fluent in English, both spoken and written.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with high-throughput RNA structure mapping techniques (e.g., SHAPE-seq, DMS-seq).
• Experience with ribosome footprint profiling.
• Understanding of nucleic acid secondary structure in RNA-protein interactions, especially regarding innate immunity.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to drive innovative scientific projects independently and collaborate across multiple workstreams.

Why GSK?

Our values—Patient focus, Transparency, Respect, Integrity, Courage, Accountability, Development, and Teamwork—are central to our culture. We foster a culture of innovation, performance, and trust, and expect our colleagues to demonstrate:

• Agile decision-making based on evidence and judgment.
• Performance management and results-driven mindset.
• Strategic leadership and organizational transformation.
• Resilience and strong relationship-building skills.
• Effective management of P&L and capital allocation.

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