Senior Scientist, Multiplex Oncology

Senior Scientist – Neuro Oncology (Multiplex IF / Spatial Biology)
Kelly® Science & Clinical
Location: Gaithersburg, MD (Onsite)
Pay Rate: $70–75/hour
Assignment Type: Contract (1-3 months TBD, maternity leave coverage with potential extension)
Start Date: ASAP

Kelly Science & Clinical is seeking a Senior Scientist to support our client’s Discovery Oncology team in Gaithersburg, MD. This is a high-impact opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge neuro‑oncology research
, specifically advancing multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) panel development and biomarker validation.

This role offers strong visibility and the chance to work alongside a Boston‑based neuro‑oncology team, with potential for longer‑term extension based on performance and project needs.

As a Senior Scientist within the Target Validation group
, you will play a key role in supporting early‑stage oncology drug development by developing and optimizing multiplex IF assays and validating biomarkers in brain tumor samples. This is not a routine lab role—this position focuses on scientific ownership, problem‑solving, and assay development within a specialized indication.

• Develop and optimize multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) assays for neuro‑oncology applications
• Validate and evaluate up to 13 biomarkers across brain tumor tissue samples
• Perform immunofluorescence (IF) on FFPE tissues, including staining, optimization, and QC
• Conduct image analysis using platforms such as Halo, QuPath, or ImageJ
• Support tissue processing, slide preparation
  , and histological workflows
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including a Boston‑based neuro‑oncology group
• Present findings, provide updates, and contribute to scientific discussions
• Troubleshoot assay challenges and drive data quality improvements

• Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline
• 8+ years of research experience in oncology, immunology, or related field
• Hands‑on experience with immunofluorescence (IF) in FFPE tissues
• Strong proficiency with image analysis tools (e.g., Halo, Visiopharm, QuPath, ImageJ)
• Experience developing, optimizing, and validating IHC/IF assays
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently in a fast‑paced environment

• Experience in neuro‑oncology or neural tissue biology
• Background in multiplex IF platforms (e.g., Akoya/Phenoptics, CODEX, Geo Mx, Cos Mx)
• Experience with slide preparation and histology workflows
• Familiarity with biomarker development and spatial biology
• Industry experience in biotech or pharma

• Work on a high‑priority neuro‑oncology initiative with real impact on drug development
• Gain hands‑on experience with advanced multiplex and spatial biology technologies
• Collaborate with leading scientists in a top‑tier global biopharma company
• Opportunity for contract extension based on project needs and performance
• Competitive compensation for a short‑term, high‑impact engagement

Apply today to join Kelly Science & Clinical and contribute to our client’s mission to transform cancer treatment through innovative science.