Associate Director, Analytical Development - Cell Based Assays presso Kriya

About Kriya 

Kriya is a biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to develop life-changing gene therapies for diseases affecting millions of patients around the world.

We leverage our proprietary computational engine, in-house manufacturing infrastructure, and integrated design platform to engineer technologies and therapeutics with the potential to transform the treatment of a broad universe of diseases of high unmet need, with a focus on metabolic disorders, neurology, and ophthalmology.

We are proud to have been named Triangle Business Journal’s Life Sciences 2024 “Best Private Company to Work For,” recognized by Forbes as one of “America’s Best Startup Employers of 2024,” and honored as one of BioSpace’s “2025 Best Places to Work.”

Role Overview

The Associate Director, Analytical Development will lead AAV gene therapy vector characterization, method development, optimization, and pre-validation efforts.  The Assoc. Director, Analytical Development will build and lead a team responsible for developing and optimizing analytical methods in support of multiple Late-phase programs. The successful candidate will be responsible for strategical planning, developing, and transferring analytical methods to the QC department.

Key Responsibilities  

• Lead a team tasked with developing analytical strategy for cell- and DNA-based AAV gene therapy vector release and characterization including potency
• Contribute to science-driven, phase appropriate, and risk-based analytical development and specification setting to support all programs in the company
• Serve as a subject matter expert, author and/or review relevant sections of documentation in support of INDs and other regulatory submissions 
• Seek out and analyze data from a variety of sources to support decisions 
• Make sound decisions regarding complex technical issues and communicate decisions effectively with internal stakeholders, elevating complex issues as appropriate
• Lead and supervise the team technically to stay up-to-date and ensure high quality analytical capability
• Coordinate sample plans cross-functionally to support phase appropriate development

Experience & Skills 

• PhD degree in Science, Biotechnology, Engineering or other related field and 5 years of industry experience, Master’s degree and 8 years of experience, or Bachelor’s degree and 10 years of experience 
• PhD preferred
• Demonstrate in-depth experience of the development, qualification, and implementation of analytical methods for the characterization and release testing of AAV vectors or biologic products in an industry setting
• Experience with analytical techniques including Flow Cytometry, ddPCR, ELISA, DNA sequencing and cell-based potency assays strongly preferred 
• Relevant AAV gene therapy experience in leading analytical development is preferred
• Previous experience managing, coaching, and providing direction to technical staff in an industry setting is preferred 
• Experience with characterization and release testing of viral vector-based system potency, plasmid DNA, or RNA products a plus
• Late-stage method development and regulatory experience a plus
• Sound understanding and demonstrated application of statistical methods/tools
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills 
• Self-motivated, organized, capable of working independently and in a collaborative environment
• Exercise of discretion and independent judgment 
• Ability and desire to work in a fast paced, startup environment
• An ability to build effective relationships and work cross-functionally to deliver results and meet business objectives.

Work Environment

• Primarily a desk setting but may include laboratory work
• May involve standing, sitting, and using laboratory equipment for extended periods.
• Must have flexible work hours, and be willing to work outside of normal, schedule hours; as necessary.

Discover True Collaborative Teamwork   

We have an ambitious set of goals, but our confidence – and our inspiration – stems from our people. From California to North Carolina, our teammates bring a spirit of Collaboration, Leadership, and Innovation to their work every day. We’re always looking for teammates with the drive and energy to help us grow. If you want to be a part of a company with an entrepreneurial culture, a bold vision, and a meaningful purpose, join us.

Rewards & Benefits

Medical, Dental and Vision ∙ 401(k) with Company Match ∙  Short and Long-term Disability Benefits ∙ Company Paid Holidays ∙ Flexible Time Off ∙ Cyber Safety protection ∙ EAP ∙ Life Insurance ∙ Equity ∙ and more!

Kriya is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

All job requirements in the job description provided indicate the minimum level of knowledge, skills, and/or abilities deemed necessary to perform the job competently. Job descriptions are an overview of the duties, responsibilities, and requirements of the position. Employees may be required to perform other job-related assignments as requested.