Cell Processing Specialist

Overview

T he Cell Therapy Processing Specialist I will receive on the job training in order to perform a variety of tasks to provide the highest quality products for patients undergoing stem cell transplant and other cellular therapies. The Connell and O'Reilly Families Cell Manipulation Core Facility (CMCF) assists DF/HCC members in developing new cell-based therapies for patients with cancer who are enrolled in novel therapeutic clinical research protocols. It also supports clinical research studies designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of these novel treatments. Please visit

This is a full-time position. Schedule is Monday through Friday, 10:30 am to 7:00 pm with on-call rotation required. This is a 100% on-site position at the Longwood Medical area.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

Responsibilities

Cell Processing

• Process minimally manipulated clinical human therapeutic cellular products by various methods using manual and/or automated aseptic technique in a regulated clean room environment according to standard operating procedures and applicable regulations.
• Achieve and maintain competency in routine procedures including:
  • cryopreservation/thawing,
  • centrifugation/washing,
  • handling of genetically modified cells,
  • labeling and transportation.
• Review and evaluate test results for acceptability including automated and manual cell counts, viability results, flow cytometry histograms, sterility testing results.
• Identify and escalate problems related to product processing and quality data of products. Appropriately communicate outcomes.

Equipment

• Perform quality check and cleaning of equipment and instrumentation. Identify the need for repair or referral as required. Respond to REES alarm system alerts and document corrective action. Participate in validation of new instruments.

QA/Regulatory Duties and Responsibilities

• Work within the cGMP and cGTP guidelines and adhere to all regulatory standards within the Cell Manipulation Core Facility.

Familiarity with operation and performance of basic lab equipment, i.e., centrifuge, microscopes, program freezers, etc.

Qualifications

Minimum Education:

• BS/BA in a Biological Science, Medical Technology or related field.
• Associate Degree in related science with MLT and clinical lab experience may substitute for bachelor’s degree.

Minimum Experience:

• Clinical lab experience preferred. One year in a clinical laboratory setting required with Associates Degree.

License/Certification/Registration:

• Medical Lab Technician (MLT) certification required with Associates Degree.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Ability to learn to perform routine cell processing for all allogeneic and autologous products.
• Ability to apply critical decision-making skills, apply good judgment and attention to detail.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with other health care providers involved in the patient’s care.
• Ability to continually upgrade job skills.
• Ability to work effectively, independently and as a member of a team.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Capable of working in a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment.
• Capable of producing accurate results within strict time constraints.
• Ability to adapt to changing technology.
• Ability to perform complex mathematical calculations using scientific notation.
• Knowledge of lab safety and infection control; clinical/research GCP knowledge.
• Familiarity with operation and performance of basic lab equipment, i.e., centrifuge, microscopes, program freezers, etc.

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong. As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of cancer for all, we are equally committed to diversifying our faculty and staff. Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and diverse professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is an equal opportunity employer and affirms the right of every qualified applicant to receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.