"Senior Researcher - Bioanalyst, RNA Therapeutics Lab"

Exciting opportunity at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center!

The Olayan Center for Cancer Vaccines, a key pillar in MSK's immuno-oncology transformation, is seeking a Senior Researcher - Bioanalyst to join our RNA Therapeutics Lab to support immune manufacture, characterization and innovation of mRNA-based personalized cancer vaccines. This role will focus on developing bioanalytical assays for in vivo and in vitro immunological evaluation and characterization of RNA and LNP's for eventual tech transfer for GMP release. These assays will focus on the T-cell response to vaccines and tumors, but may include other immunological assessments, including APC characterization, cytokine response, etc.

You will have a unique opportunity to help build the lab from the ground up, shape workflows, and pioneer new approaches. You won't just be joining a lab - you'll be helping to design it, define it, and set the stage for years of discovery!

Role Overview:

• Specific skills include mouse injection, tissue isolation and processing, tumor implantation, T cell characterization, cell transfection, flow cytometry, ELISA, cellular and in vivo imaging
• Development of bioanalytical assays of RNA and LNP's for preclinical assessment in vivo and in vitro, focusing on T-cell responses, as well as GMP analytical release aligned with regulatory guidance and requirements
• Assays will assess immunological potency and other measures of RNA/LNP performance, in both cellular and in vivo contexts, to make decisions on RNA and LNP platforms
• Plan, lead and execute in cellulo and in vivo experiments as needed
• Collaborate with formulation, research and GMP arms to pursue optimal mRNA designs, lipid formulation, and processes
• Write laboratory standard operating procedures for assays and routine methodologies for tech transfer to GMP operations
• Analyzing data and creating graphs using appropriate software (e.g., SoftMax Pro, Excel, Prism) and data visualization tools; writing reports of results and methods used and presenting data at regular lab meetings.
• Perform routine maintenance, operation and inventory for a variety of laboratory instruments and reagents, which may include, but are not limited to: microplate readers, analytical reagents, and the flow cytometer
• Following proper safety recommendations and handling procedures for different biological and chemical materials and ensuring others in the laboratory adhere to proper safety procedures.
• Training other laboratory personnel as needed.
• Performing all other duties as assigned.

Key Qualifications:

• M.S. in biology/immunology or other related field with a minimum of 4 years of experience; Ph.D preferred

Core Skills:

• Exceptional attention to detail and strong analytical skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced research environment, managing multiple projects while maintaining precision.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot experimental challenges.
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to interact across all levels in a confident, concise, professional manner.
• Enthusiasm and dedication to MSK's vision, mission and values.

Additional Information:

• Location: Zuckerman, 417 E 68th Street, NYC
• Schedule: Onsite

Pay Range: $75,500.00 - $116,900.00 FSLA Status: Exempt

At MSK, we believe in fair, competitive pay that reflects your job, experience, and skills.

MSK is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of recruiting and employment. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran status or any other factor which cannot lawfully be used as a basis for an employment decision.

Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.