Scientist - Cell and Molecular Biology / Immunology

Hercules CA | On-Site

Entry Date: 23 JUNE 2024

X-Therma, a venture backed biotech company pioneers ground-breaking cold chain technology via a convergent biopreservation platform, to advance Regenerative Medicine and make available safe and on-demand organs, engineered tissues, and cell & gene therapies to patients in need. X-Therma collaborates with renowned research institutions such as Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and Johns Hopkins University and is supported with significant funding from the US Department of Defense, National Science Foundation, California Institute of Regenerative Medicine, etc.

X-Therma technology greatly improves cold-chain logistics and is an FDA Breakthrough Device to end the organ waiting list in a long-overlooked market. This is a paradigm shift that could make worldwide organ sharing possible and eliminate organ discard. Immediately, the technology could resolve current bottlenecks in Regenerative Medicine biomanufacturing and processing and allow “off-the-shelf" living medicines in this hyper-growth space.

Joining Team Excellence:

We have a bold vision to create something great that has never been done before: We are wary of what could go wrong, but obsessed with what can go right. We are mission-driven, intellectually honest and relentless learners, ambitious, courageous, and extraordinarily persistent. “Giving up” does not exist in our vocabulary. We respect and support each other to get better every day and make the world a better place. We are in the San Francisco East Bay in Hercules, not only known for its beautiful scenery and comfortable weather all year round, but also you can truly embrace the breath of innovation and dream building spirit of San Francisco’s Biobay.

To strengthen our growing team in Hercules, we are seeking an experienced and dynamic Scientist with a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology or Immunology to join our dynamic biotech team. The ideal candidate will possess expertise in working with leukopaks/apheresis material, whole blood, and the isolation and characterization of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Knowledge in apoptosis and necrosis pathways, coupled with experience in cryopreservation and fill-and-finish processes, is highly desirable. This role is pivotal to our research and development efforts, driving the advancement of our innovative cryopreservation products, particularly to support therapeutics developers’ needs.

What’s in it for you?

You will have a great opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking, life-saving products. You will be part of a team producing our novel life-saving molecules and solutions. This role demands a highly goal-driven approach and the ability to focus on time-sensitive objectives within the most urgent priorities.

What you will do:

• Perform isolation of PBMCs/T-Cells/NK-Cells from leukopaks and whole blood samples.
• Characterize PBMCs/T-Cells/NK-Cell populations using analytical flow cytometry and other relevant techniques.
• Study and characterize apoptosis and necrosis pathways that are commonly associated with cryoinjury.
• Develop and implement cryopreservation protocols for primary immune and stem cells.
• Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records, including data management and technical reports.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Chemistry, Formulation, Manufacturing, and Quality.
• Support daily laboratory operations including equipment maintenance, inventory management, and ordering supplies.
• Contribute to the development and optimization of new products and processes.
• Train other staff in assays and help employee development.
• Write reports, manuscripts for publication, and present slides in PowerPoint

Requested Qualifications:

• PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology, Immunology, or a related field, with 0-2 years of postdoctoral experience or equivalent industry experience in a relevant area.
• Advanced cell culture techniques with preference for human T cell or other immune cell types extracted from solid tissues/liquid biopsies
• Proficiency in flow cytometry and data analysis.
• Proficient in designing experiments with high throughput and utilizing analytical methods to characterize cells

Other Skills and Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of basic cell biology, including cell types and their functions.
• An understanding of cryobiology and process/clinical needs is a plus.
• Proficiency in aseptic techniques and handling of biological materials.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow complex Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Comfortable and able to adjust workload based upon changing priorities.
• A strong work ethic and self-motivation to deliver results within timeline
• Thrive in an early stage environment with a proactive attitude; no task is too big or too small for you
• Must be able to work in a laboratory and office setting without prohibitive limitations.
• Able to physically lift up to 50 lbs and assist with moving/installing laboratory equipment

Exceptional candidates will have:

• Familiarity with GLP, GMP, and GDP regulations.
• Knowledge of bioreactors and automated liquid handling

Our package includes:

• Competitive base salary $105,000 to $130,000 annually
• ADP benefits, Health, vision, and dental benefits, with high family coverage
• 401(k) savings plan
• Employee Stock Option Plan
• And more!

X-Therma is an Equal Opportunity Employer. X-Therma does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.