Job Tittle: Research Scientist, Cell Biology - T Cell Biology
Duration: 12 Months
Location: Santa Monica, CA, 90404
Description
Discovery Research is seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist to lead characterization studies addressing product efficacy and safety. This role reports to a director and requires independent experimental design and execution, data organization and analysis, and clear communication of findings in team settings.
Responsibilities
- Execute cell-based functional and biochemical assays to support candidate selection for clinical development and combination strategies enhancing T-cell potency and safety
- Design experiments addressing fundamental tumor immunology questions related to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment
- Perform genetic and biochemical manipulation of T cells and evaluate functional outcomes
- Analyze, organize, and communicate results in research and cross-functional meetings
- Plan and execute experiments aligned with project strategies, timelines, and goals
- Present scientific findings to project teams and cross-functional or cross-site audiences
- Document experimental data to support downstream clinical studies and patent filings
- Serve as a core team member or project leader when required
- Collaborate with Process Development, Translational Medicine, and Clinical Development teams
- Coordinate tasks across multiple projects with effective prioritization and planning
- Mentor junior team members and oversee laboratory work and data review
Basic Qualifications
- Advanced scientific degree (MD, PharmD, or PhD)
OR - Master's degree with 6+ years of relevant scientific experience
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience designing and developing primary immune cell assays
- Hands-on expertise in T-cell functional assays including in vitro cytotoxicity, proliferation, cytokine/chemokine analysis, signaling, activation, differentiation, and exhaustion
- Proficiency in aseptic cell culture techniques
- Strong experience with multi-parameter flow cytometry, including panel design, acquisition, and data analysis (FACSDiva, FlowJo, GraphPad Prism, Excel)
- Experience with MSD, ELISA, and/or Luminex platforms
- PhD in immunology, cellular biology, tumor biology, or a closely related field
- Strong background in cancer immunotherapy and human immunology; experience with engineered T cells preferred
- Demonstrated independence in experimental design, data interpretation, and presentation
- High attention to detail and data accuracy
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities
- Strong collaboration, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Excellent organizational and record-keeping abilities
- Self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership and flexibility
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