Principal Scientist, Immunology

Role Summary

Principal Scientist, Immunology, to contribute to research and development across the immunology portfolio with end-to-end exposure to therapeutic discovery, nonclinical safety and pharmacology evaluation, cGMP manufacturing, and clinical evaluation. Requires a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in a relevant field, strong publication record, and experience in an interdisciplinary team. Located at the Tonix Research and Development Center in Frederick, Maryland; travel expectations are minimal.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain a robust flow cytometry pipeline to support in-depth immunology research.
• Conduct independent and original research supporting the Tonix portfolio and RDC mission.
• Develop novel methods and assays to contribute to the RDC research pipeline.
• Establish in-vitro and in-vivo models to support evaluation of immunotherapeutics against diverse disease conditions (e.g., autoimmunity, oncology).
• Collection, analysis, and evaluation of data.
• Interpret data, make decisions, and conduct troubleshooting on related technical issues.
• Preparation of scientific presentations, reports, manuscripts, and grant proposals.
• Design, optimize, and standardize novel in-house flow cytometry assays, ensuring reliability and reproducibility of screening outcomes.
• Establish multi-parameter flow cytometry panels using spectra flow cytometry and define data acquisition and analysis pipelines to support RDC programs.
• Provide scientific leadership and expertise in cell-based, molecular, and biochemical assays with rigorous data analysis.
• Independently troubleshoot, problem-solve, and execute experiments while incorporating feedback and adapting to project needs.
• Work cross-functionally in a matrix environment with project and functional teams to drive research objectives.
• Characterize and assess binding properties of novel proteins and antibodies using technologies such as Octet, high-content imaging, and reporter-based assays.
• Lead and participate in cross-functional project teams, proposing innovative discoveries and optimization strategies.
• Integrate cross-functional inputs to develop a robust, strategic R&D plan aligned with Tonix's goals.
• Uphold company mission and values, emphasizing accountability, innovation, integrity, quality, and teamwork.
• Support special projects and business initiatives as needed to contribute to broader corporate strategy.

Qualifications

• Ph.D., or equivalent doctoral degree.
• Strong record demonstrating independent, high-quality, creative research in the field of viral vectors as vaccines against deadly pathogens and antibody or protein design and discovery.
• Ability to generate hypotheses, test ideas, analyze data, and design new studies.
• Experience applying cutting-edge techniques for drug screening, such as high-content imaging, microscopy, and cell-based screening.
• Experience in industry or biological contexts with the ability to interrogate large data sets using computational tools; bioinformatics a plus.
• Ability for minimal travel.
• Dedicated team player capable of thriving in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision; highly organized, results-driven, problem solver, and collaborator.
• Demonstrated ability to perform essential duties with or without accommodation.

Skills

• Flow cytometry (in-house and multi-parameter, spectra flow).
• In vitro and in vivo immunology model development.
• Data collection, analysis, and interpretation; troubleshooting technical issues.
• Scientific leadership in cell-based, molecular, and biochemical assays.
• Cross-functional collaboration in matrix environments.
• Techniques including high-content imaging, Octet binding assays, and reporter-based assays.
• Development of novel methods and assays for immunology-focused research.
• Strategic planning for R&D programs and integration of cross-functional inputs.

Education

• Ph.D., or equivalent doctoral degree.

Additional Requirements

• Minimal travel required.