Research Scientist

Cancer Biology & Immunology

COMPANY AND JOB OVERVIEW:

At PicoImmune (NanoBiotec LLC), we believe in the power of science to change lives. PicoImmune is a fast-paced dynamic company dedicated to discovery and development of transformative small and large molecule therapeutics for cancer, autoimmune and many other diseases with unmet medical needs. We are seeking a highly motivated and energetic scientist who will work with us to design and execute experiments in multiple projects to gain insight into the activity of lead drugs and support efficient, data-driven translational development. Here, you can apply your scientific curiosity in Biology, Immunology, Medicine, Oncology, Drug Discovery, or similar fields to pursue advances in biopharma research and contribute to studying the effectiveness of novel drug candidates in various projects.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

This applicant needs to have a broad understanding of immunology and cancer biology, with unique expertise in the area of drug discovery and development for therapy of various cancers, immuno-inflammatory and other diseases. The incumbent will be responsible for testing novel molecules, addressing questions of drug efficacy and mechanism of action, and supporting biomarker discovery and patient stratification using primarily in vitro and ex vivo methods. Specific duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Independently design and execute experiments with high efficiency and accuracy
• Lead a team of biologists to successfully complete projects within timelines
• Design and optimize multiplex proteomic and genomic applications for the improvement of precision medicine using cutting-edge technologies such as NanoString, mass cytometry, etc
• Troubleshoot and optimize bioassays; analyze, interpret and present data
• Document experiments, results and findings in laboratory notebooks
• Prepare reports, draft SOPs, and present research results at various meetings

Technical Skills Requirements:

• In depth hands-on experience with tumor and immune cell culture, expansion, characterization; and cell purification, activation, differentiation, and cryopreservation
• Thorough knowledge of development of cell-based assays for cell phenotype analysis, viability and signal transduction in various cells such as cell lines and primary cells
• Proficiency in cell biology skills including western blot, ELISA, ELISpot, IHC, real-time cell imaging, multiplex immunoassays, reagent development and assay automation, qPCR, gene editing, etc.
• Extensive experience in cellular and immune cell-based analytics such as advanced multi-parameter flow cytometry and imaging, cell labeling, intracellular staining, and cytokine release.
• Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite, GraphPad Prism, and FlowJo / Kaluza is essential.
• Experience with NanoString nCounter/GeoMX, mass cytometry or CyTOF, genomic and proteomic microarrays is highly desirable, but not required to apply.

Other Capabilities and Attributes:

• Excellent organization, communication, data interpretation / analysis skills
• Detail oriented with the ability to critically interpret and summarize scientific data in an accurate and concise manner and demonstrate competency in defining and initiating next steps.
• Ability to prioritize and manage time efficiently and improve efficiency and productivity with each project
• Ability to collaborate in teams and work with others in a matrixed environment, and manage multiple workstreams simultaneously
• Maintain positive and productive working relationships with colleagues
• Highly flexible and adaptable to changing projects and work assignments
• Track record of success as evidenced by a strong publication record, or contributions in the biopharma industry.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

PhD in life sciences (such as Immunology, Cellular & Molecular Pharmacology, Cancer Biology and Molecular Biology, etc.) with 1-2 years postdoctoral or relevant industry experience; or MS, 5 years relevant experience in a research facility, with considerable laboratory expertise that spans molecular and cellular research as exemplified by peer-reviewed publications and/or patents.