Scientist I – Bioanalytical & Advanced Assay Development

Tonix Pharmaceuticals • Frederick, MD

6h • $70,000 - $120,000

About The Position

Tonix Pharmaceuticals is advancing a diverse portfolio of therapies, including antivirals, biologics, small molecules, and vaccines in infectious diseases and immunology. We are seeking a Scientist-II to expand our bioanalytical assay development capabilities, supporting programs from discovery through translational and regulatory milestones. This role provides the opportunity to design and validate robust bioanalytical and cell-based assays that directly support Tonix’s therapeutic pipeline, while generating high-quality data that drives preclinical and clinical decision-making

Requirements

• Bioanalytical Expertise: Proven track record developing and validating bioanalytical assays for potency, neutralizing antibodies, immunogenicity, and biomarkers.
• Assay Development Skills: Strong background in high-throughput and 384-well cell-based assay design, with applications in drug discovery and translational research
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture; 3D culture and/or organoid systems preferred.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in qPCR ELISA, MSD, high-content imaging, and automated assay workflows.
• Familiarity with bioprinting systems, CAD design inputs, or digital tissue modeling preferred
• Software Proficiency of data analysis tools (GraphPad Prism, Excel, Python, R, or similar) and advanced bioanalysis/image analysis tools.
• Research Record: Publications and assay development experience that reflect innovation, impact, and strong scientific execution.
• Critical Thinking & Communication: Ability to interpret complex datasets and clearly communicate findings to scientific and non-scientific stakeholders.
• PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, bioengineering, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Bioanalytical Assay Development – Design, develop, optimize, and execute assays supporting potency, neutralization, immunogenicity, biomarker detection, ADME/DMPK, and oncology programs under guidance of senior scientists.
• Cell-Based Assay Development – Establish and refine functional 2D and 3D cell-based assays to evaluate biological activity, target engagement, and mechanism of action of therapeutic candidates.
• Organoid & iPSC Model Implementation – Culture, maintain, and characterize human organoids and iPSC-derived differentiated cell systems to support disease modeling, efficacy testing, and translational studies. Perform routine passaging, differentiation, quality control, and assay integration.
• 3D Culture & Bioprinting Support – Assist in development and optimization of 3D culture systems, bioprinted tissue constructs, and micro physiological models to improve physiological relevance of screening platforms.
• Computational & Data Skills for 3D Platforms
• Utilize image analysis software (e.g., Harmony, ImageJ/Fiji, CellProfiler, or equivalent) for quantitative phenotypic analysis
• Work with 3D reconstruction tools and segmentation algorithms for organoid/tissue models
• Manage bioprinting design files (e.g., CAD-based inputs, G-code workflows where applicable)
• Apply basic scripting (Python/R preferred) for data processing, visualization, and statistical analysis
• Biochemical & Biophysical Assays – Execute and optimize ELISA, MSD, enzymatic, binding, and label-free assays (e.g., Octet/BLI, SPR) to characterize potency, kinetics, and molecular interactions.
• Experimental Execution & Troubleshooting – Conduct feasibility studies, optimize assay parameters, troubleshoot technical challenges, and ensure reproducibility and robustness of experimental workflows.
• Data Analysis & Documentation – Analyze experimental data using appropriate statistical tools; maintain accurate laboratory records; prepare summaries, technical reports, and SOP documentation to support development programs.
• Regulatory & Quality Compliance – Perform work in accordance with company SOPs, quality standards, and applicable regulatory guidelines.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration – Work closely with biology, pharmacology, DMPK, and translational teams to support candidate progression across Tonix’s therapeutic and vaccine pipeline

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance, Basic and Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance, Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Account, and Employee Assistance Programs
• Pet Insurance
• Retirement Savings 401k with company match and annual discretionary stock options
• Generous Paid Time Off, Sick Time, & Paid Holidays
• Career Development and Training

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree