Senior/Principal Scientist - Analytical Development (Contract)

Location: Needham, MA (on-site presence required; 40% laboratory-based work) 
Contract Term: Till end of 2026 
Salary: 170K - $184K 
**Note All applicants must be authorized to work in the United States and must not require sponsorship. Unfortunately, Candel is unable to provide sponsorship of any kind at this time. 

Why Work With Us?
At Candel, our people drive our success. We value diversity, collaboration, and bold thinking in a supportive, mission-driven environment. Like a team, we show up for each other and stay focused on making a difference for patients and families. Our leadership is transparent and empowering, and our culture is built on trust, flexibility, and accountability, encouraging ownership and innovation every day.


Our Science: Advancing Cancer Immunotherapies
Candel is a clinical-stage biopharma company developing off-the-shelf, multimodal immunotherapies that stimulate personalized, systemic anti-tumor responses. Our platforms use genetically modified adenovirus and HSV constructs. With positive Phase 3 results for our lead candidate, it’s an exciting time to join us and help bring transformative cancer treatments to patients. Learn more: 

Position Summary

Candel Therapeutics is seeking a highly qualified and experienced Senior or Principal Scientist to support analytical development activities on a contractual basis. The incumbent will contribute to the execution and oversight of laboratory operations, with a focus on cell-based assays and molecular methodologies. This role requires a strong foundation in GxP and ICH guidelines and involves cross-functional collaboration to support non-clinical, quality assurance, regulatory, and manufacturing functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate daily laboratory operations related to analytical development.

• Author and critically review analytical protocols, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and technical reports.

• Conduct comprehensive data analysis and ensure the accuracy and integrity of analytical results.

• Lead investigations into out-of-specification (OOS) results and deviations, including root cause analysis and implementation of corrective actions.

• Provide training and technical guidance to team members on the implementation of new assay methodologies.

• Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure alignment of analytical deliverables with broader program objectives.

• Ensure all laboratory activities are conducted in compliance with applicable GxP regulations and ICH guidelines.

Qualifications

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Analytical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific discipline; equivalent industry experience may be considered.

• Demonstrated expertise in analytical development, with a focus on cell-based and molecular assay techniques.

• Proficiency in GxP-compliant laboratory practices and familiarity with ICH regulatory standards.

• Strong analytical, organizational, and scientific writing skills.

• Availability to work on-site with 40% of time dedicated to laboratory-based activities.