Scientist, Preclinical Ophthalmology

Scientist, Preclinical Ophthalmology

SpliceBio is a biotechnology company developing the next generation of genetic medicines through its proprietary Protein Splicing platform. Our mission is to unlock the potential of gene therapy by enabling the delivery of therapies beyond the size limitations of conventional approaches, with the goal of addressing diseases with significant unmet medical need.

Built on more than 20 years of pioneering research in inteins and protein engineering from the Muir Lab at Princeton University, SpliceBio is headquartered in Barcelona and operates in a highly collaborative, international environment.

The Role

As Scientist, Preclinical Ophthalmology, you will play a key role in supporting and advancing scientific research across our Ophthalmology portfolio.

You will independently design and conduct laboratory experiments, analyse and interpret complex datasets, and contribute to the planning and development of ocular research projects. Working closely with other Scientists, Technicians and cross-functional teams, you will provide technical guidance, share scientific expertise and help ensure high-quality, robust and meaningful research outcomes.

This role is ideal for a scientist who combines strong hands-on experimental capabilities with a flexible, collaborative and project-oriented mindset, and who is motivated to translate scientific expertise into therapeutic development within a dynamic biotech environment.

Main Responsibilities

1. Experimental Design & Execution

• Independently design and execute experiments aligned with project objectives.
• Optimize and troubleshoot experimental protocols to improve accuracy, efficiency and reproducibility.
• Coordinate and collaborate with cross-functional team members to ensure effective experimental workflows.
• Apply scientific judgement to adapt experimental approaches as project needs evolve.

2. Data Analysis, Interpretation & Reporting

• Perform detailed analysis of experimental data using appropriate analytical and statistical approaches.
• Independently interpret results and draw scientifically meaningful conclusions.
• Prepare high-quality scientific reports, presentations and summaries for internal and external audiences.
• Clearly communicate experimental outcomes and their implications for project development.

3. Collaboration & Project Support

• Actively contribute to scientific project planning and decision-making.
• Combine hands-on experimental work with project ownership, planning activities and managing assigned deliverables and timelines.
• Coordinate effectively with relevant stakeholders and multidisciplinary teams.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to Technicians and Junior Scientists when required.

4. Scientific Development & Innovation

• Stay current with scientific literature, emerging technologies and new methodologies relevant to ophthalmology, neuroscience, gene therapy and related areas.
• Apply new scientific knowledge to improve methodologies and support innovation.
• Participate actively in scientific discussions, seminars and collaborative problem-solving sessions.

What We're Looking For

PhD, PhD nearing completion, or equivalent relevant experience in ophthalmology, neuroscience, gene therapy or a related scientific field

At least 4 years of laboratory experience, with demonstrated ability to independently perform experiments and analyse data

Candidates coming from academic research environments are welcome, particularly those motivated to apply their scientific expertise within a fast-moving biotechnology environment

Hands-on experience with a range of bioanalytical techniques, including but not limited to:

• Brightfield and fluorescence microscopy
• Immunohistochemistry
• Molecular biology techniques
• Biochemistry techniques

Strong ability to analyse complex datasets and independently derive meaningful scientific insights

Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to address complex scientific challenges and propose innovative solutions

High attention to detail and commitment to scientific quality and reproducibility

Strong ability to work effectively within a team and foster collaboration across disciplines

A flexible and industry-oriented mindset, with the ability to adapt scientific approaches, tasks and priorities as projects evolve

Ability to combine scientific depth with effective project management, managing multiple activities and deliverables in an organised manner

Business proficiency in English, both written and spoken

Highly Valued Experience

Experience in any of the following areas will be considered a strong advantage:

Previous experience in a biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry environment is highly valued; 2+ years would be an advantage

Experience in translational research, connecting preclinical findings with clinical relevance and therapeutic development

Extensive experience working with rodents for experimental purposes, ideally recognised by the Generalitat de Catalunya

Experience in preclinical ocular gene therapy, particularly:

• Intraocular delivery, including subretinal administration
• In-life monitoring techniques such as electroretinography (ERG)
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) in rodent models

Experience with retinal organoids, including:

• Differentiation from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)
• Patient-derived retinal organoids
• Organoid maintenance and characterisation

Why Join SpliceBio?

At SpliceBio, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge science with the potential to transform patients' lives. You will join a fast-growing, international biotech company where innovation, collaboration and scientific excellence are at the heart of everything we do.

We offer:

The opportunity to contribute directly to innovative gene therapy and ophthalmology programs

Exposure to cutting-edge preclinical research and translational science

A collaborative, multidisciplinary and international working environment

The opportunity to work closely with experienced scientists across different areas of therapeutic development

Competitive compensation and benefits

Career development opportunities in one of the most exciting and rapidly evolving areas of biotechnology

The chance to make a tangible impact on the development of therapies for patients with significant unmet medical needs

If you're passionate about advancing innovative science and thrive in a dynamic, collaborative and research-driven environment, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply and help us redefine what's possible in gene therapy.