Research Associate I - Sgourakis Lab

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia • Philadelphia, PA

8h

About The Position

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) offers countless ways to change lives. Our diverse community of more than 20,000 Breakthrough Makers will inspire you to pursue passions, develop expertise, and drive innovation.

At CHOP, your experience is valued; your voice is heard; and your contributions make a difference for patients and families. Join us as we build on our promise to advance pediatric care—and your career.

This role is an independent researcher that plans, coordinates and executes research projects.

Works with the principal, investigator. Participates in and assists in the planning and coordination of research projects. Is independent and responsible for a specific aspect of one or more research project. Assists in determining the direction of the project.
Position Summary
Seeking a scientist with expertise in immunotherapy and CAR-T cell research to support preclinical development. The role requires hands-on experience with in vivo tumor models, real-time killing assays, and multi-parameter flow cytometry.

Requirements

• Demonstrated expertise in CAR-T cell biology and immunotherapy
• Extensive hands-on experience with in vivo tumor models and small animal handling
• Proficiency in real-time killing assays and cytotoxicity platforms
• Advanced skills in multi-color flow cytometry including panel design and data analysis
• Strong understanding of T cell biology and tumor immunology
• Excellent organizational, communication, and teamwork skills
• Expert knowledge in the use of a wide variety of lab techniques, research equipment and research related software
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills
• Excellent organizational skills
• Excellent critical thinking / problem-solving skills
• Excellent analytical skills
• Solid interpersonal skills
• Basic leadership skills
• Bachelor's Degree - Required
• B.S. in Immunology, Cancer Biology, Cell Biology, or related field preferred
• At least seven (7) years of directly relevant post grad scientific lab experience - Required

Nice To Haves

• Master's Degree - Preferred
• Doctorate - Preferred
• PhD in Immunology, Cancer Biology, Cell Biology, or related field preferred
• At least nine (9) years of directly relevant post grad scientific lab experience - Preferred
• Successful completion of a Post Doc Fellowship - Preferred
• Postdoctoral training or industry experience in cellular immunotherapy preferred
• Experience with gene editing techniques (CRISPR/Cas9) preferred
• Knowledge of GLP/GMP practices for cell therapy products preferred
• Publications in peer-reviewed journals related to CAR-T or immunotherapy preferred

Responsibilities

• Design and execute in vivo studies using murine tumor models to evaluate CAR-T cell efficacy and safety
• Perform in vitro functional assays including real-time killing assays and cytotoxicity measurements
• Conduct multi-parameter flow cytometry for immune cell characterization and CAR-T phenotyping
• Maintain detailed experimental records and prepare comprehensive reports
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance immunotherapy programs
• Ensure compliance with IACUC protocols and laboratory safety standards
• Assists faculty in the conduct of research of significant value in the basic and/or translational science area
• Plans, conducts research projects within the federal, institutional regulations and policies
• Collaborates with researchers, external agencies and institutions to develop cooperative research initiatives
• Trains technical staff, students in lab procedures
• Reviews manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals
• Assists with the submission of grant applications, contracts and research projects funding
• Participates in free discussion, research progress, and overall morale
• Responsible for appropriate use of research funds
• May supervise students or other research staff as assigned

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level