Senior Scientist - CRISPR & Functional Genomics

Job description At Orakl Oncology , we are accelerating the development of oncology treatments. Today, fewer than 5% of new cancer drugs succeed in clinical trials. Clearly, new methods are needed. We combine cutting-edge biology and AI to build the next generation of insight platforms with the world’s largest cohort of patient tumor avatars. These avatars fuel our AI-powered predictive engine , helping to anticipate clinical trial outcomes, validate therapies, and uncover new drug candidates. Our mission is simple yet ambitious: to bring more effective treatments to patients who need them - and to make drug development smarter, faster, and more personalized. We collaborate with top hospitals, research institutes, and pharmaceutical companies worldwide. Backed by leading investors, we are a fast-growing, mission-driven startup at the intersection of science and technology. We are looking for a passionate and dynamic hands-on scientist to build Orakl's CRISPR and functional genomics capabilities from the ground up. Reporting directly to the Principal Scientist, Gizem, you'll design and run gene-perturbation and drug screens in our patient-derived tumor organoids, generating the high-quality biological data that powers our AI predictive engine. Preferred Experience Must have PhD in molecular biology, cancer biology, biotechnology, or related field, ~1–5 years industry experience would be a plus. Proven proficiency with CRISPR gene editing in mammalian systems (ideally in organoids): gRNA design, MOI optimization, KO validation. Experience with both lentiviral-based and electroporation-based is preferred. Hands-on expertise in organoid culture. Knowledge of molecular biology techniques (RT PCR, qPCR/ddPCR, Western Blot, DNA and RNA isolation etc.) and flow cytometry/FACS. Exceptional wet-lab fundamentals: sterile technique, routine culture, molecular biology, cloning, assay development, QC. Demonstrated ability to independently plan, prioritize, and execute complex experimental pipelines with high quality and reproducibility. Strong analytical, quantitative data interpretation, and clear documentation/reporting skills. Nice to have Experience with pooled/arrayed CRISPR screens or other functional genomics approaches. Experience with drug-response profiling in organoids (dose–response, time-course, combination assays) and high-throughput screening. Knowledge of programming e.g. Python Previous responsibility for managing CROs or academic collaborations. Experience mentoring junior scientists, lab technicians and/or establishing lab standards. Prior involvement in early-stage drug discovery or cross-functional oncology research. What will you find at Orakl Mission: Work in a cutting-edge environment, on the bleeding edge of cancer research. Growth opportunities: we’re rapidly expanding the scope of our work and you will be offered multiple opportunities to grow with it! Impact: you’re going to be participating in a fast-growing, multi-faceted project with multiple opportunities to shape it according to your interests. More about Orakl on our Welcome to the Jungle page and on our website Recruitment steps Introduction call (20min) – An initial discussion to better understand your background, experiences, and motivations. Technical Interview (45min) – A deep dive into your technical skills and expertise relevant to the role. Case Interview (1h) – A case study or problem-solving exercise to assess your strategic thinking and analytical abilities. In-person when possible to meet the team. Reference calls - 2-3 references including at least a direct manager. Culture Fit Interview (45min) – A conversation with our team to ensure alignment with our company culture, values, and ways of working.