Research Scientist

RESEARCH SCIENTIST

Contract to Hire role with our client located in Pittsburgh, PA.

Work Environment: Onsite

We are seeking a Research Scientist to join our clients T-cell Receptor (TCR) Discovery team. The incumbent will use state-of-the-art instrumentation and techniques for the identification of TCRs that recognize minor histocompatibility antigens, as well as tumor-associated antigens and neoantigens. Additionally, she/he will work with a group of individuals developing a high-throughput platform that is able to isolate and identify rare antigen-specific T-cells from healthy and patient donor samples. Candidates interested in expanding their knowledge and gaining experience in cell-based (TCR-T) cancer therapies and drug discovery are highly-encouraged to apply.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Process, characterize, and coordinate the genotyping of primary human blood/PBMC samples
• Apply high-throughput cell culture techniques for establishing co-cultures of primary T-cells with antigen-presenting cells
• Transduce and/or electroporate antigen-presenting cells with lentivirus or plasmid constructs
• Analyze T-cells and T-cell receptor function via flow cytometry
• Perform molecular biology techniques as the project requires for the cloning and detailed characterization of TCRs
• Develop assays for high-throughput screening of T-cells and TCR-antigen reactivity
• Maintain accurate sample and laboratory records
• Organize and conduct assigned studies with a high-degree of independence and attention to detail
• Present scientific results to peers and management during regularly scheduled lab meetings

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS

• PhD in Cancer Biology, Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or related fields is required
• Hands-on research experience in an academic or industry setting is required
• A record of advancing projects, as evidenced by publications or patents is required
• In-depth knowledge of cellular biology is required
• Demonstrated work in cell culture techniques, including designing, setting up, and performing cell-based assays is required
• Experience in T-cell enrichment, expansion, and characterization is preferred
• Previous exposure to flow cytometry is required
• Experience in cell line development is required
• Experience in assay/platform development is preferred
• Experience in cellular transfection, lentivirus production and transduction is required