Research Associate II, Translational Medicine
About The Position
The Research Associate II performs laboratory responsibilities supporting translational assay development and clinical sample analysis for ongoing and upcoming clinical trials. The role requires a strong technical foundation, disciplined work habits, exceptional attention to detail, and critical thinking to generate reproducible, high-quality data that informs development of Tr1X’s cell therapy programs. The position operates with general knowledge and independence under oversight and guidance from Translational scientists, and includes hands-on work with human blood and tissue specimens. The position is on-site in San Diego, California. The successful candidate will process clinical specimens; conduct flow cytometry, immunoassay, molecular, and cell-based work; contribute to assay development and documentation; and support clinical sample management and routine laboratory upkeep. The role also involves presenting experimental summaries, meeting timelines, and adapting to a fast-paced startup environment.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in immunology, cell biology, or a related scientific field.
- At least 2 years of industry or equivalent experience in assay development, immunology, cell biology, or a related field.
- Hands-on experience with flow cytometry-based assays, including sample processing, instrument setup, data acquisition, data analysis, and troubleshooting.
- Hands-on experience maintaining cell cultures on primary human cells.
- Demonstrated ability to reproducibly conduct multiplex immunoassays, such as ELISA or MSD, and/or molecular assays.
- Proficiency with analytical software such as Prism and FlowJo.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow SOPs and maintain accurate, real-time documentation in ELNs.
- Ability to prepare clear experimental summaries covering design and data.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet project timelines.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced startup environment with an agile, flexible mindset and strong organizational skills.
- Ability to wear all required PPE and safely conduct experiments.
- Legally authorized to work for any employer in the United States.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in a translational or biomarker-focused setting.
- Experience with flow cytometry panel design.
- Experience executing cell-based assays, such as mixed lymphocyte reactions (MLRs).
- Familiarity with assay development, qualification, and validation workflows.
- Knowledge of GxP principles or compliance expectations relevant to clinical sample handling and processing.
Responsibilities
- Process human blood and tissue samples according to SOPs and established workflows.
- Perform weekly flow cytometry runs, including sample preparation, instrument setup and quality control, compensation, PMT adjustments, data acquisition, and troubleshooting.
- Complete and deliver real-time data analysis while ensuring accuracy, reproducibility, and adherence to assay requirements.
- Conduct MSD/ELISA and molecular assays, such as dPCR, as needed.
- Maintain cell cultures and perform cell-based assays.
- Support assay development, optimization, qualification, and troubleshooting in collaboration with scientists.
- Prepare concise summaries of experimental design and results and present them in team settings.
- Document activities accurately and in real time using an electronic lab notebook.
- Develop laboratory skills, troubleshooting capabilities, and scientific knowledge with support from senior scientists.
- Contribute to SOP drafting and updates, method documentation, and controlled-form revisions.
- Support clinical sample management, including receipt, logging, storage, aliquoting, and preparation for downstream analyses.
- Maintain detailed clinical-sample documentation, chain of custody, and compliance expectations.
- Perform routine laboratory upkeep, including reagent inventory.
- Perform other responsibilities based on business needs.
Benefits
- Base salary and discretionary annual target bonus
- Incentive stock options
- 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution
- Medical, dental, vision, long-term disability, short-term disability, and life insurance for employees and their families
- Paid time off
- Paid holidays
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
