Scientist I

Target PR Range: 29-39/hr
*Depending on experience

Immunology R&D organization is seeking a highly motivated contractor to join our Systems Immunology early discovery team. We are looking for a candidate who is passionate about learning and has excellent attention to detail, to support target identification and validation efforts within our Immunology R&D division. The ideal candidate will have academic or industry experience in molecular and cell biology, with a preference for expertise in single-cell technologies, including single-cell next-generation sequencing (NGS), flow cytometry, and human cell culture. A willingness to learn and develop new techniques, as well as engage in in-depth analyses using diverse approaches, is essential. This role involves collaboration with various teams across R&D and other departments.

Key Responsibilities:

· Conduct high-throughput functional experiments with immune cells “in vitro” and characterize outcomes at the single-cell level using various omics techniques.

· Perform scRNAseq library preparations manually or with automated liquid handlers (e.g., Biomek i7) as part of a team.

· Operate flow cytometry and sorting machines to characterize the single-cell proteome and isolate targeted cells.

· Utilize Illumina sequencers and other laboratory instruments for NGS library quality control (e.g., Tapestation).

· Accurately document project details, protocols, and experimental procedures in the Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN).

· Conduct experiments and optimize protocols independently post-training, collaborating with colleagues to deliver high-quality data promptly.

· Interpret findings and effectively communicate scientific data, concepts, and recommendations to internal audiences.

· Collaborate with computational biologists and data scientists to generate and interpret scOMICs datasets.

· Work in matrixed environment to support various departments, participate in alignment meetings, and facilitate cross-functional collaboration.

Required Qualifications:

· BS or equivalent education with 1-3+ years of experience or MS or equivalent education (PhD overqualified)

· Strong background in basic molecular biology and cellular biology/or genomics with experience in molecular biology lab techniques such as flow cytometru and DNA/RNA extraction, as well as familiarity with PBMC isolation, handling and cell culture.

Preferred Qualifications:

· Experience with flow cytometry.

· Experience with human cell culture and functional experiments.

· Familiarity with 10X Genomics platforms.

· Background in R and immunology is a plus but not required.