Tumor Ex-vivo Research Associate (6 month contract role)

Tumor Ex-vivo Research Associate (6 month contract role)

Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate on a 6 month contract basis to join the Primary Cell Platform (PCP) Team within the Immunology and Pharmacology Department at PIRC . The candidate will be part of a collaborative and fast-paced team driving preclinical research focused on human tumor biology and immune function. The role offers the opportunity to work with clinically relevant human samples and contribute to translational research efforts that support early-stage therapeutic discovery.
A strong candidate will have a background in immunology and/or cell biology , with prior hands-on experience in cellular assays, tissue culture, or immunoassays. The ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams, follow complex protocols, and deliver high-quality experimental data is essential. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in advanced tumor modeling and immunoprofiling techniques while supporting impactful, real-world research.

This is a 6 month contract with potential to transition to a full-time permanent role based on performance and project success. Upon conversion, the employee will be eligible for our full benefits package.

Main Responsibilities

• Perform in vitro and ex vivo experiments focused on tumor-immune interactions using primary human models
• Support the culture and maintenance of primary tumor tissues , including tumor slice assays , spheroids/organoids , and immune co-cultures
• Process tumor/blood specimens: e.g. tissue dissociation, PBMC isolations from whole blood, viability assessment, and assay preparation
• Execute immunological assays such as:
  • Flow cytometry , ELISA , MSD , cytokine profiling
  • T cell activation , proliferation , and cytotoxicity assays
• Culture primary human immune cells (e.g., PBMCs, T cells, macrophages)
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and present findings to the team
• Maintain detailed, timely, and compliant documentation using an electronic lab notebook (ELN)
• Follow lab safety and quality standards
• Be available for occasional after-hours work to support time-sensitive tumor sample processing

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelors/Masters degree in Immunology , Cell Biology , Biomedical Sciences , or a related life science field with 2-3 years of industrial experience
• Available to work full-time, onsite for the 6 months duration without needed work authorization/sponsorship from the company

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous relevant laboratory experience is highly preferred
• Skilled in aseptic technique and primary human cell culture
• Experience with tumor tissue handling , 3D culture systems , or ex vivo tumor models
• Familiarity with flow cytometry , immunoassays , and related technologies
• Experience using an electronic lab notebook for experimental documentation
• Excellent communication, time management, and organizational abilities
• Collaborative, flexible, and motivated to work in a fast-paced translational research environment

At PharmaEssentia, our goal is to treat as many people with cancer as possible. That means challenging the status quo with better science that leads to better lives. By joining our team, you will not only expand your own possibilities, but you will contribute to expanding options for people with cancer.