Primary Objective:

We are seeking a Senior Scientist with a proven track record of scientific excellence and project leadership in oncology research to join our client's Cell Biology team within the Research Department. You will have a direct impact on the drug pipeline, both as a project/team leader and a lab-based contributor. You will work with an experienced cross-functional team responsible for target discovery and validation, lead ID and optimization, translational studies and new technology development. You will bring your theoretical and practical expertise in cell therapy, immuno-oncology, and/or cancer drug discovery to lead pipeline projects, establish program priorities and work with a cross-functional team to deliver pre-clinical datasets to support pipeline progression. In the lab, you will develop, design, conduct and analyze in vitro and in vivo data to assess the function and mechanism of novel cell therapies. As a result-oriented self-starter, you will have a strong commitment to teamwork and reliability.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. with 5+ years of research experience within the pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry
• Clear demonstration of leadership in drug discovery
• Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cells, alternative cell-based cancer therapeutics, or the investigation of T-cell biology
• Solid Tumor Immunology (Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes, Myeloid Derived Suppressor Cells, Tumor Associated Macrophages, Regulatory T-cells)
• The use of biologics in anti-cancer therapy

Responsibilities: 

• You will be expected to both lead and contribute to one or more pipeline programs, working collaboratively with cross-functional teams to ensure the timely generation and dissemination of critical program data to enable data-driven decisions.
• You will be expected to help drive technology initiatives within the company and propose/vet new targets to potentially be added as pipeline projects.
• You will contribute to developing program strategy and will be responsible for the delivery of key pre-clinical data that support program progression.
• You will be expected to work independently and collaboratively, and effectively plan and organize work activities and prioritize task completion for yourself and potentially direct reports.
• You may manage and mentor direct reports
• As a highly organized, self-motivated individual with a strong background in cancer biology, you will stay up to date with relevant technical and intellectual scientific expertise in tumor biology and cancer modelling, particularly as it relates to CAR-T cell biology and have a genuine passion for this field of research.
• Expertise in manipulating immune cells, particularly T cells, including purification, transfection/transduction, activation and expansion.
• Expertise in the assessment of T-cell phenotypes, senescence, or exhaustion
• Proficiency with complex immune cell assays including multiparameter flow cytometry, in vitro cell based assays (e.g. cytotoxicity, proliferation, degranulation), live cell analysis, and multiplex assays.
• Coordinating/liaising with contract research organizations (CROs)
• Effective and timely communication of results and relevant scientific literature
• Creative, analytical, and critical thinking focused on advancement of corporate goals
• Commitment to ethical scientific investigations and rigorous experimental methods
• Ability and desire to multitask and function in a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment.
• Sense of urgency in performance of duties
• Interpersonal skills that promote a collaborative and productive lab environment
• Effective and efficient written and oral communication skills
• Commitment to teamwork, regardless of job title