Senior Scientist, CAR Screening & Lead Selection

Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine•Cambridge, MA

3d•$112,000 - $180,550•Onsite

About The Position

Johnson & Johnson is seeking a Senior Scientist for its CAR Screening and Lead Selection team in Cell & Genetic Medicines, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The role advances next-generation cell therapies by designing, executing, and analyzing in vitro assays to characterize and select CAR-T candidates. The scientist will generate data that supports data-driven decisions and pipeline progression across modalities, working cross-functionally in a dynamic environment with advanced technologies. The successful candidate will bring scientific curiosity, technical expertise across diverse in vitro assays, and a rigorous, discovery-oriented approach to developing therapeutics. This is an on-site, lab-based position involving extensive bench work and collaborative team science.

Requirements

PhD in immunology, bioengineering, cell biology, or a related field, plus at least 2 years of relevant industry or postdoctoral experience; alternatively, at least 5 years of experience working in cell therapy in biopharmaceutical or biotechnology settings for non-PhDs.
Hands-on expertise with multiparameter flow cytometry (traditional and/or spectral), including panel design, sample preparation, acquisition, and data analysis.
Ability to independently analyze data and create visual representations using GraphPad Prism, Spotfire, or similar software.
Ability to independently design and execute complex in vitro studies with limited guidance.
Self-motivated, highly organized, and able to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced discovery environment.
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to independently drive projects while working collaboratively.
Comfort with extensive bench work and collaborative team science in an on-site laboratory environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience with primary human T cell culture, expansion, and genetic engineering, including viral transduction and/or non-viral gene editing.
Proficiency in IncuCyte-based assays or comparable real-time cytotoxicity platforms.
Experience with intracellular cytokine staining and cytokine arrays, such as MSD or comparable platforms.
Expertise using electronic lab notebook systems for experimental documentation; experience with Benchling is a plus.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

Generate assays and data sets to stratify lead CAR-T candidates and advance pipeline programs.
Design, perform, and troubleshoot in vitro assays evaluating the phenotype and function of CAR-T candidates, including cell-based cytotoxicity assays.
Analyze and communicate complex data sets, using results to determine next-step strategies and troubleshoot.
Collaborate with colleagues in discovery, process development, and therapeutic area subject-matter expert groups to align priorities and share data.
Contribute to team experimental designs and scientific strategy discussions, and provide guidance and support to junior team members.
Follow best practices for laboratory safety, data integrity, and reproducibility.
Maintain clear and accurate records of experimental design, data, and analysis using an electronic lab notebook.

Benefits

Vacation: 120 hours per calendar year.
Sick time: 40 hours per calendar year, with different amounts for employees residing in Colorado or Washington.
Holiday pay, including floating holidays: 13 days per calendar year.
Work, Personal and Family Time: up to 40 hours per calendar year.
Parental leave: 480 hours within one year of a child's birth, adoption, or foster care placement.
Bereavement leave: 240 hours for an immediate family member and 40 hours for an extended family member per calendar year.
Caregiver leave: 80 hours in a 52-week rolling period.
Volunteer leave: 32 hours per calendar year.
Military spouse time off: 80 hours per calendar year.
Opportunities for growth and professional development.