Research Associate I - HLA/SLA

United Therapeutics Corporation-posted about 2 months ago

Full-time • Entry Level

Onsite • Morrisville, PA

1,001-5,000 employees

Chemical Manufacturing

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The Research Associate I - HLA/SLA (Xeno/RMO) is responsible for assisting developing, validating, and performing immunogenetics testing to support xenotransplantation research and regulatory milestones. This role focuses on performing assays to characterize swine leukocyte antigen (SLA) and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) compatibility, optimizing crossmatch and antibody screening assays, and ensuring high-quality, reproducible data to guide clinical and preclinical decision-making. The position plays a key role in advancing translational research by collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to refine protocols, analyze results, and support regulatory submissions.

Perform routine and complex immunogenetics testing (e.g., PCR-based typing, Next-Generation Sequencing, Luminex/Intelliflex assays) on human and porcine samples
Assist in development, validation, and optimization of assays for histocompatibility testing (HLA/SLA)
Isolate, culture, and prepare PBMCs, endothelial cells, and other relevant cell populations for compatibility testing
Troubleshoot technical issues, maintain assay performance, and document deviations or corrective actions
Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment, ensuring readiness for regulated testing and audits
Contribute to scientific manuscripts, abstracts, and conference presentations
Stay current with relevant literature, technologies, and regulatory guidelines in HLA/SLA testing and xenotransplantation research
Document all laboratory activities in compliance with GLP, CLIA, CAP, EFI, and/or FDA regulatory requirements
Assist in writing, reviewing, and updating SOPs, validation protocols, and quality records
Participate in internal audits, CAP inspections, and regulatory reviews
Assist in training junior staff and collaborators in proper laboratory techniques and assay workflows
Collaborate with clinicians and R&D scientists to design experiments and refine donor-recipient matching strategies

Bachelor's Degree in a related field
1+ years of histocompatibility experience
Proficiency in laboratory techniques (pipetting, cell handling, molecular assays, flow cytometry)
Capacity to participate in multiple projects with competing timelines in a fast-paced research and clinical environment
Effective problem-solving skills to troubleshoot assay failures and identify root causes
Competence with electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN), LIMS systems, and basic bioinformatics workflows
Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends on an ad hoc basis.

ABHI - American Board of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics Certified Histocompatibility Technologist (CHT) or Supervisor (CHS)
Strong understanding of immunogenetics, including HLA and SLA systems, antigen presentation, and transplant immunology
Familiarity with xenotransplantation models, including swine genetics, immunobiology, and donor-recipient matching considerations
Working knowledge of cell culture techniques, including PBMC and endothelial cell isolation and maintenance
Knowledge of crossmatch methodologies (CDC, flow cytometry) and interpretation of cytotoxicity/antibody binding data
Excellent technical documentation skills for SOP writing, assay reports, and regulatory submissions

Eligible employees may participate in the Company's comprehensive benefits suite of programs, including medical / dental / vision / prescription coverage, employee wellness resources, savings plans (401k and ESPP), paid time off & paid parental leave benefits, disability benefits, and more.

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