Post Doctoral Research Associate

Post Doctoral Research Associate

This position will support a translational oncology program focused on a novel bispecific antibody strategy that redirects a component of the human innate immune system toward cancer-associated cellular targets. The project is supported by funding from the International Myeloma Society / Paula and Rodger Riney Foundation, the Georgia Research Alliance, and the University of Georgia Research Foundation. The role will contribute to cell-based, biochemical, immunologic, and in vivo translational studies designed to advance lead bispecific antibody candidates.

Experimental responsibilities will include mammalian cell culture, tumor cell viability and killing assays, ELISA, flow cytometry, antibody binding and uptake assays, PBMC-based immune studies, biochemical characterization, immunohistochemistry and other tissue-based translational assays, data analysis, scientific writing, and grant-related reporting. In addition to in vitro and ex vivo studies, the position will support mouse-based preclinical studies evaluating safety, pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and antitumor efficacy of lead candidates.

Relevant experience may include murine xenograft models, IV/IP/subcutaneous dosing, blood and tissue collection, clinical monitoring, necropsy, tumor measurement, bioluminescent imaging, sample processing for downstream assays, and coordination with animal facility staff or CRO partners. The position will also contribute to IACUC-related documentation, study planning, protocol development, data review, and interpretation of in vivo results. The goal of the position is to improve the biological activity, mechanistic understanding, and translational readiness of lead bispecific antibody candidates.

A person in this role will have two primary objectives. The first is to characterize and optimize antibody-mediated target engagement, internalization, and cancer cell killing across relevant experimental models, including cell lines, primary samples, PBMC-based systems, and mouse studies. The second is to define mechanism of action and generate rigorous translational data that supports manuscripts, grant reporting, investor and partner communications, and future development decisions.

The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture, flow cytometry, ELISA-based assays, experimental design, and quantitative data analysis. Experience with antibody therapeutics, cancer biology, immunology, translational oncology, and preclinical mouse studies is highly desirable. The candidate should be comfortable working in a small laboratory environment where responsibilities include both hands-on experimentation and broader project support, including protocol writing, data interpretation, figure generation, vendor/CRO coordination, and preparation of materials for grants, reports, and scientific presentations.

PhD Required

Independently plan and execute rigorous experiments. Troubleshoot complex biological and biochemical assays. Interpret data in the context of therapeutic mechanism, efficacy, and translational relevance. Communicate scientific findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences. Work collaboratively with faculty, trainees, collaborators, and external research partners. Manage multiple experimental timelines and priorities. Maintain high-quality laboratory documentation. Contribute intellectually to project direction, publications, and grant-related materials.