Senior Research Associate, Cancer Vaccines Research

Role Summary

Senior Research Associate to support the advancement of the cancer vaccine platform through pre-clinical studies, with hands-on in vitro and in vivo experimentation and a focus on deep immune profiling.

The successful candidate will bring substantial experience in flow cytometry and cellular immunology, with the ability to independently execute, troubleshoot, and refine immune-based assays. This role requires scientific curiosity, flexibility, and a strong collaborative spirit. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team to design, implement, and analyze experiments that inform cancer vaccine discovery and development.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and execute primary immune cell-based assays using mouse and human samples to evaluate responses to mRNA-based cancer vaccines.
• Design and implement high-parameter flow cytometry panels for in-depth immune profiling; analyze and interpret complex cytometry data.
• Isolate and culture immune cell subsets from blood, tumors, and lymphoid tissues using standard and novel techniques.
• Collect and process samples from pre-clinical in vivo models to assess vaccine immunogenicity and mechanism of action.
• Execute and adapt protocols with minimal guidance; troubleshoot and incorporate new techniques by reviewing current literature.
• Collaborate across functional teams to plan studies, interpret results, and share findings through presentations and written reports.
• Maintain rigorous documentation and contribute to regulatory filings and project deliverables.

Qualifications

• BS with 2+ years of relevant experience or MS with 0+ years in immunology, immuno-oncology, cancer biology, or related fields.
• Strong preference for industry experience supporting immunology-focused drug discovery or translational research.
• Proven expertise in ex vivo functional assays, including flow cytometry, ELISpot, ELISA, and reporter-based systems.
• Hands-on experience with immune cell isolation and culture from both human and murine sources.
• Independent proficiency in high-parameter flow cytometry (including intracellular cytokine staining); experience with BD and/or Cytek platforms preferred.
• Familiarity with in vivo models of cancer or immunization, including sample collection and basic procedures.
• Strong critical thinking and communication skills with the ability to proactively identify and address experimental challenges.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment while maintaining attention to detail and scientific rigor.
• Note: This role requires work authorization in the US without the need for future sponsorship.

Skills

• Flow cytometry
• Immunology and immuno-oncology
• Cell isolation and culture
• In vivo model handling
• Data analysis and interpretation
• Scientific writing and presentations

Education

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in immunology, immuno-oncology, cancer biology, or related field

Additional Requirements

• US work authorization without future sponsorship