Senior Scientist

Title:
Research Scientist, Cell Biology – T Cell Biology

Duration: 12 months Contract

Location:
Santa Monica, CA 90404

Pay range: $50- $65/hr.

Position Summary:

Discovery Research is seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist to lead characterization studies addressing product efficacy and safety in support of innovative CAR‑T cell therapy programs. Reporting to a Director, this role requires independent experimental design, execution, data analysis, and communication of findings across research and cross‑functional teams.

• Execute cell‑based functional and biochemical assays to select candidate molecules for clinical development or support combination strategies to enhance T cell product potency and safety
• Design experiments addressing tumor immunology aspects related to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment
• Perform genetic and biochemical manipulation of T cells and evaluate impact on T cell function
• Analyze, organize, and communicate results at research and cross‑functional meetings
• Plan and execute experiments aligned with strategy, timelines, and project goals
• Present scientific results to project teams and cross‑functional, cross‑site audiences
• Document experimental findings to support clinical studies and patent applications
• Serve as a core team member or project leader as needed
• Collaborate with Process Development, Translational Medicine, and Clinical Development to ensure cross‑functional alignment
• Coordinate tasks across multiple projects, demonstrating prioritization and planning
• Mentor junior team members and supervise laboratory work, including review of experimental results

• Advanced scientific degree (MD, Pharm
  
  D, PhD) OR
• Master's Degree with 6+ years of relevant scientific experience

• Experience designing and developing primary immune cell assays using key immune cell populations
• Hands‑on expertise in T‑cell functional characterization assays, including in vitro cytotoxicity, proliferation, cytokine/chemokine measurements, cell signaling, activation, differentiation, and exhaustion
• Proficiency in aseptic cell culture techniques
• Expertise in multi‑parameter flow cytometry (panel design, acquisition, and analysis using FACSDiva, Flow Jo, Graph Pad Prism, Excel)
• Experience with MSD, ELISA, and/or Luminex platforms
• PhD in immunology, cellular biology, tumor biology, or related field
• Strong background in cancer immunotherapy and human immunology; experience with engineered T cells preferred
• Demonstrated independence in experimental design, data analysis, interpretation, and presentation
• Strong organizational skills with high attention to detail
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment with changing priorities
• Excellent collaboration, interpersonal, and communication skills
• Self‑motivated with a strong sense of responsibility and adaptability