Job Tittle:  Research Scientist, Cell Biology – T Cell Biology
Duration: 12 Months
Location: Santa Monica, CA, 90404
 
Description
Discovery Research is seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist to lead characterization studies addressing product efficacy and safety. This role reports to a director and requires independent experimental design and execution, data organization and analysis, and clear communication of findings in team settings.
 
Responsibilities

• Execute cell-based functional and biochemical assays to support candidate selection for clinical development and combination strategies enhancing T-cell potency and safety
• Design experiments addressing fundamental tumor immunology questions related to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment
• Perform genetic and biochemical manipulation of T cells and evaluate functional outcomes
• Analyze, organize, and communicate results in research and cross-functional meetings
• Plan and execute experiments aligned with project strategies, timelines, and goals
• Present scientific findings to project teams and cross-functional or cross-site audiences
• Document experimental data to support downstream clinical studies and patent filings
• Serve as a core team member or project leader when required
• Collaborate with Process Development, Translational Medicine, and Clinical Development teams
• Coordinate tasks across multiple projects with effective prioritization and planning
• Mentor junior team members and oversee laboratory work and data review

 
Basic Qualifications

• Advanced scientific degree (MD, PharmD, or PhD)
  OR
• Master’s degree with 6+ years of relevant scientific experience

 
Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing and developing primary immune cell assays
• Hands-on expertise in T-cell functional assays including in vitro cytotoxicity, proliferation, cytokine/chemokine analysis, signaling, activation, differentiation, and exhaustion
• Proficiency in aseptic cell culture techniques
• Strong experience with multi-parameter flow cytometry, including panel design, acquisition, and data analysis (FACSDiva, FlowJo, GraphPad Prism, Excel)
• Experience with MSD, ELISA, and/or Luminex platforms
• PhD in immunology, cellular biology, tumor biology, or a closely related field
• Strong background in cancer immunotherapy and human immunology; experience with engineered T cells preferred
• Demonstrated independence in experimental design, data interpretation, and presentation
• High attention to detail and data accuracy
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities
• Strong collaboration, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent organizational and record-keeping abilities
• Self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership and flexibility

 
 
At SPECTRAFORCE, we are committed to maintaining a workplace that ensures fair compensation and wage transparency in adherence with all applicable state and local laws. This position’s starting pay is: $ 71.94/hr.