Research Associate, In Vivo Discovery
About The Position
Kite is seeking an entry-level scientific professional to join its In Vivo Discovery team, which develops targeted vectors to reprogram cells in vivo for cancer treatment. Working under close supervision from experienced scientists, the Research Associate performs hands-on laboratory experiments, routine procedures, and simple to moderately complex assays according to established protocols and good laboratory practices. The role may also support small-animal studies evaluating experimental constructs and connecting mechanistic findings to in vivo outcomes. The Research Associate collects and analyzes data with guidance, maintains clear and thorough experimental documentation, and communicates findings to support ongoing projects. The position emphasizes developing core laboratory skills and scientific understanding, learning new techniques, and collaborating in a team-oriented research environment. The role requires onsite work in a laboratory environment, with occasional weekend work potentially required.
Requirements
- High school degree and 3 years of relevant experience, or an associate degree and 2 years of relevant experience, or a bachelor's degree.
- Solid foundation in biological sciences and basic laboratory techniques; ability to perform routine procedures and follow protocols accurately and attentively.
- Familiarity with basic data analysis and common software tools for processing, summarizing, and visualizing results.
- Strong documentation and record-keeping skills, including maintaining electronic laboratory notebooks.
- Good written and verbal communication skills to report experimental results and observations.
- Knowledge of and commitment to laboratory safety procedures and good laboratory practices.
- Strong organizational and time-management abilities, including handling multiple tasks and meeting deadlines.
- Collaborative working style, positive team-oriented attitude, and willingness to share knowledge and contribute to team goals.
- Ability and eagerness to learn new techniques or equipment, accept feedback, and improve continuously.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality data generation.
- Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, Prism, and other programs for creating and distributing reports and information.
- Ability to work onsite in a laboratory environment.
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor’s degree in biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, or a related life science field.
- 0–2 years of hands-on laboratory research experience in an academic or industry setting, including internships or co-op experience.
- Experience with mammalian cell culture and primary cells.
- Prior experience with lentiviral vector production and flow cytometry.
- Prior experience with mouse handling and interventions, including intravenous tail-vein and intraperitoneal injections.
- Experience in a collaborative research environment, such as an academic laboratory, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical setting.
Responsibilities
- Plan and perform assigned laboratory experiments of simple to moderate complexity under close supervision, following established protocols and procedures.
- Support in vivo mouse studies, including routine animal handling, dosing and injections such as intravenous tail-vein and intraperitoneal injections, IVIS imaging support, blood collection, tissue harvest or dissection, and sample processing under approved protocols and SOPs.
- Execute routine experimental tasks accurately and consistently after training, following good laboratory practices and safety guidelines.
- Identify and troubleshoot basic technical issues, making minor adjustments independently and seeking guidance for more complex problems.
- Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data; identify trends or outcomes and contribute to interpretation with input from experienced team members.
- Maintain detailed laboratory records, including electronic laboratory notebooks and data logs, and assist with technical summaries or presentations.
- Collaborate with research team members and regularly communicate progress to supervisors and project leads; incorporate feedback into ongoing work.
- Follow laboratory safety protocols and quality standards and help maintain a clean, safe, and compliant laboratory.
- Learn new experimental techniques and operate new instrumentation with guidance; improve skills through feedback and practice.
- Contribute to a positive, team-oriented laboratory culture by being reliable and proactive, assisting colleagues, and helping train new team members on basic procedures when needed.
- Maintain mammalian cell lines and primary human cells using sterile technique in a biosafety cabinet.
Benefits
- Discretionary annual bonus eligibility.
- Discretionary stock-based long-term incentives; eligibility may vary by role.
- Paid time off.
- Company-sponsored medical insurance.
- Company-sponsored dental insurance.
- Company-sponsored vision insurance.
- Company-sponsored life insurance.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
