Associate Scientist, Research

Overview

Associate Scientist will work on developing methods to optimize the anti-tumor activity of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) for therapeutic applications. Such methods include the use of knockout approaches, ex vivo manipulation of TILs during the expansion process, and other techniques aimed at improving the function, trafficking, and persistence of TILs. The position requires prior experience working in a research laboratory focusing on T-cell biology. The ideal candidate will have expertise in monitoring/assessing mitochondrial function, cellular metabolism in T cells, and other molecular biology techniques. This position requires an individual to be very motivated and bring impactful work to the team to help move new TIL approaches into the clinic.

Essential Functions And Responsibilities

• Work as part of a research and development group to support ongoing projects in the lab.
• Design and execute experimental plans and protocols consistently.
• Experience monitoring mitochondrial function, including mitochondrial biogenesis, using flow cytometric approaches and Agilent Seahorse Real-Time Cell Metabolic analyzer.
• Develop assays to assess metabolic programming and how this alters TIL function.
• Analyze and interpret experimental results. Make detailed observations and record them in a timely and relevant fashion.
• Capability for troubleshooting technical issues and presenting ideas to the team.
• Investigate and develop new methods and technologies necessary for project advancement.
• Write corresponding SOPs.
• Contribute to scientific publications, including posters for meetings.
• Help identify patentable inventions.
• Must adhere to Iovance Biotherapeutics’ core values, policies, procedures, and business ethics.
• Comply with Safety SOPs, SDS sheets, and laboratory procedures per company policy and OSHA regulations.
• Perform all other related duties as assigned
  
  

Required Education, Skills, And Knowledge

• Master’s Degree (MS) in Cellular Biology, Molecular Biology, Immunology, or related discipline with 3+ years of relevant work experience
• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in Cellular Biology, Molecular Biology, Immunology, or related discipline with 5+ years of relevant working experience
• High motivation and flexibility to adapt to new situations and be part of a dynamic and growing team.
• Ability to independently carry out all lab experiments. Skilled at tissue culture using primary and established cell lines and in vitro T cell functional assays that assess mitochondrial function and cell metabolism.
• Extensive experience with molecular biology, ddPCR or qPCR, and flow cytometry is required.
• Ability to analyze and interpret experimental results, make detailed observations, and record them in a timely and relevant fashion.
• Ability to organize presentation and discussion results and develop new methods and technologies for project advancement.
• Excellent record-keeping and organization skills are needed.
• Must be able to communicate (verbal and written) effectively.
• Excellent collaborative style.
  
  

Preferred Education, Skills, And Knowledge

• PhD in Cellular Biology, Molecular Biology, Immunology, or related discipline with 0-2 years of post-doc or industry experience
  
  

The physical demands described here represent those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodation may be made upon request to enable individuals to perform essential functions. Please contact Human Resources to request accommodation.

Physical Demands and Activities Required

• Must be able to move to and from the office to the lab located on separate floors and move about the office and lab as needed.
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position, standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time.
• Must be able to grasp with both hands, perform repetitious actions such as pinch with thumb and forefinger, turn with hand/ arm, and reach above shoulder height.
• Must be able to use several types of laboratory equipment and pipettes for extended periods.
• Must be able to work on a tablet or computer typing for 50% of a typical working day.
• Must be able to move and lift 20 pounds multiple times daily.
• Must be able to use near vision to view samples at close range.
• Wear proper personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, lab coats, and closed-toed shoes, when in a laboratory setting.
  
  

Mental: Clear and conceptual thinking ability; excellent judgment, troubleshooting, problem-solving, analysis, and discretion; ability to handle work-related stress; ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously; and ability to meet deadlines

Work Environment (This would need to adjust based on work location)

This position will work in both an office and a laboratory setting. When in the lab, there may be a risk of exposure to hazardous or biological waste within the environment through receipt, transport, storage, preparation, dispensing, administration, cleaning, and/or disposal of contaminated areas and waste.

The statements contained in this document are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a colleague assigned to this description. They are not intended to constitute a comprehensive list of functions, duties, or local variances. Management retains the discretion to add or change the position's responsibilities at any time.

Iovance is committed to cultivating and offering a diverse and inclusive work environment. As an equal-opportunity employer, our employees and applicants will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law. If you need assistance or accommodation to apply to one of our opportunities, please contact hr@iovance.com.

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