Associate Scientist, Complex In Vitro Models

Role Summary

Associate Scientist, Complex In Vitro Models, at GSK Vaccines in Cambridge, MA. You will apply cell culture and in vitro assays to advance vaccine candidates through preclinical development, with a focus on high-resolution imaging to understand vaccine interactions at the cellular level. The role involves developing and using complex in vitro models, including 3D culture systems or organ-on-chip platforms, and collaborating across teams to inform vaccine project decisions.

Responsibilities

• Perform a variety of in vitro assays to measure cellular responses on different cell types or tissues.
• Optimize and execute mammalian cell culture techniques, including standard cell lines and complex in vitro models.
• Execute advanced microscopy techniques, specifically confocal and other high-resolution imaging methods, on cultured cells to visualize cellular processes and vaccine interactions.
• Perform quantitative image analysis using commercial software or by developing custom scripts (e.g., in Python) to extract meaningful data from microscopy experiments.
• Analyze, interpret, and accurately record experimental results, presenting findings in written and oral communications.
• Write and revise laboratory protocols and maintain accurate and detailed records in an electronic notebook.
• Work cross-functionally with scientists in other teams to characterize vaccine candidates.
• Provide key data for potential publications in scientific journals or patent filings.
• Collaborate and assist senior team members in project execution and scientific discussions.

Qualifications

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences (Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related field) with 2+ years of relevant laboratory experience in a pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry, academic, or government institute; OR a Master’s degree with relevant laboratory experience.
• One or more years of experience with mammalian cell culture, including cell lines, primary cells and/or complex in vitro models.
• One or more years of experience executing and troubleshooting experiments utilizing immunofluorescence in cultured cells.
• One or more years of experience with imaging various cultured cells and in vitro models using confocal microscopy.
• Ability to work in person at the Cambridge site and demonstrate willingness to spend 80% of time in the research laboratory.

• Preferred: Hands-on experience with confocal microscopy and advanced image acquisition techniques.
• Proficiency in image analysis software (e.g., ImageJ/Fiji, Imaris, Arivis) and/or experience in writing analysis scripts (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB) for quantitative image data extraction.
• Experience working with human biological samples.
• Understanding of immunology and its relevance to vaccine mechanisms.
• Experience with mRNA transfection and/or working with viruses.
• Experience in assay development and qualification.
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a matrixed team.
• Fluency in English.
• Demonstrated track record of strong written and oral scientific communication.
• Ability to troubleshoot experimental problems and adapt to new challenges.
• Ability to manage multiple assays concurrently under tight timeline restrictions.

Skills

• Cell culture and in vitro assay execution
• High-resolution imaging and confocal microscopy
• Quantitative image analysis and scripting (Python, R, MATLAB)
• Scientific communication (written and oral)

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences or related field; or Master’s degree with relevant laboratory experience.