Overview

The Senior Research Associate will work on developing methods to optimize the anti-tumor activity of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) for therapeutic applications. Such methods may include ex vivo manipulation of T cell co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory pathways, setting up screening assays generation of patient-derived tumor organoids (tumoroids) to study TIL function, as well as developing genetically engineered TILs with enhanced vivo persistence and therapeutic activity.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Tissue Processing: Process primary tumor samples to generate autologous tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) to be used for downstream assays.
• Assay Execution: Design and implement co-culture assays to assess TIL function using a variety of techniques; utilize viral techniques to label primary cancer cells and TIL for tracking in vitro
• Model Development: Develop and maintain patient-derived tumor organoids and 3D cell lines
• Translational Assays: Perform complex 2D and 3D assays that contribute to our understanding of TIL mechanism of action
• Data Management: Analyze experimental data and present results at team meetings for discussion
• Team Collaboration: Conducts experiments under overall direction of the Senior Director and/or more senior scientist; Ability to track and execute multiple projects at once.
• Conduct: Must adhere to Iovance Biotherapeutics’ core values, policies, procedures, and business ethics. Comply with Safety SOPs, SDS sheets, and laboratory procedures per company policy and OSHA regulations.
• Perform miscellaneous duties as assigned.

Required Education, Skills, and Knowledge

• Master’s Degree in Cellular Biology, Molecular Biology, Immunology, or related discipline with 6 or more years of relevant bench research experience, preferably in industry
• Understanding of and experience with molecular biology techniques including DNA and RNA extractions, PCR, plasmid cloning and generation of various viral vectors.
• Extensive tissue culture experience using primary T cells, familiarity with in vitro T cell functional assays, flow cytometry staining, and acquisition techniques expected.
• Expertise with development and long-term maintenance of patient-derived tumor organoids
• Excellent record-keeping and organization skills and effective communicator (verbal and written).
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a team.

The physical demands described here represent those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodation may be made upon request to enable individuals to perform essential functions. Please contact Human Resources to request accommodation.

Physical Demands and Activities Required

• Must be able to move to and from the office to the lab located on separate floors and move about the office and lab as needed.
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time.
• Must be able to grasp with both hands, perform repetitious actions such as pinch with thumb and forefinger, turn with hand/ arm, and reach above shoulder height.
• Must be able to use several types of laboratory equipment and pipettes for extended periods.
• Must be able to work on a tablet or computer typing for 50% of a typical working day.
• Must be able to move and lift 20 pounds multiple times daily.
• Must be able to use near vision to view samples at close range.
• Wear proper personal protective equipment when in a laboratory setting, i.e., safety glasses, lab coats, and closed-toed shoes.

Mental: Clear and conceptual thinking ability; excellent judgment, troubleshooting, problem-solving, analysis, and discretion; ability to handle work-related stress; ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously; and ability to meet deadlines.

Work Environment

This position will work in both an office and a laboratory setting. When in the lab, there may be a risk of exposure to hazardous or biological waste within the environment through receipt, transport, storage, preparation, dispensing, administration, cleaning, and/or disposal of contaminated areas and waste.

The statements contained in this document are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a colleague assigned to this description. They do not constitute a comprehensive list of functions, duties, or local variances. Management retains the discretion to add or to change the duties of the position at any time.

Iovance is committed to cultivating and offering a diverse and inclusive work environment. As an equal-opportunity employer, our employees and applicants will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law. If you need assistance or accommodation to apply to one of our opportunities, please contact careers@iovance.com.

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