Augustine Therapeutics is a Leuven-based spin-off company from VIB/KU Leuven aiming to develop novel treatment options for neuromuscular disease, peripheral neuropathies, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Associate Scientist – In Vitro Pharmacology

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Augustine Therapeutics was founded in 2019 as a spin-off of VIB and KU Leuven. Based on the groundbreaking neurological research of Prof. Ludo Van Den Bosch, this early drug discovery company is building a portfolio of first-in-class therapies for rare neuromuscular diseases and neurodegenerative disorders. Augustine Therapeutics' approach is based on new insights into the neuroprotective potential of small-molecule HDAC6 inhibitors.

HDAC6 was identified by Prof. Ludo Van Den Bosch and his research group a decade ago as a potential therapeutic target for Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease.  Our research aims to deepen our understanding of CMT biology and characterize the potential protective action of HDAC6 inhibitors at the neuronal and axonal level. 

Augustine Therapeutics is supported by experienced scientists and drug developers from major pharma and biotech companies and is backed by V-Bio Ventures, PMV, AdBio Partners, VIB New Venture and Gemma Frisius Fund. Our research is also well funded by Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship (VLAIO) and the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Research Foundation (CMTRF), a US-based patient advocacy group.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist to set-up and run the in vitro pharmacology laboratory assays of Augustine Therapeutics, supporting the discovery and development of our portfolio of novel small molecule therapeutics for neurological indications. This individual will set-up, organize and maintain the laboratory to perform and execute on the in vitro pharmacology assays while proactively proposing evolutions for laboratory equipment, safety, operations and assay performance.

Full Job Description:

• Setting-up and performing in vitro pharmacology experiments in our labs at the Bioincubator in Leuven (Belgium), including biochemical, cellular and target engagement assays as well as registering data in Augustine data capture systems
• Maintain and evolve a high performing lab aligned with Health, Safety and Environmental requirements standards.
• Work in a small dynamic team and ensuring continuous communication.
  
  Requirements:
• BsC or MSc in Pharmacy/biochemistry/cell biology or related disciplines
• Prior industrial/biotech experience in in vitro pharmacology and cellular biology, leveraging automated lab devices when relevant and demonstrated troubleshooting technical issues.
• Practical knowledge of in vitro pharmacology assays (binding, in vitro and cellular functional assays). Mammalian cell culture is a must.
• Experience with iPSCs culture and differentiation protocols is a plus.
• At ease with digital solutions to maintain electronic lab notebook, design of experiments and recording of results.
• Maintain compliance by procedure application and completion of training modules.
• Excellence in maintaining lab records (lab notebook and data capture), ensuring high-level data quality and consistency.
• Curious on evolution of lab technologies and learning new methods.
• Contribute to laboratory installation and maintenance, including Health, Safety, and wellbeing aspects and procedures.
• Professional communication and agile team working abilities.
• Fluency in spoken and written English is a must, Dutch is a definitive plus.
  
  What we offer:
• An exciting job in a highly dynamic, international, early-stage biotech environment, in brand new state-of-the-art lab facility
• An opportunity for fast intellectual and professional growth with a potentially life-changing impact on neuropathy patients, mentored by highly experienced (15+ years) scientific management team.
• An opportunity to contribute actively to the success of a new company.
• A competitive compensation package.
• Flexible work hours where possible.
  
  Place:
• Bio Incubator-Leuven, Gaston Geenslaan 3, 3001 Leuven, Belgium

Apply here online!