Research Associate II - Immuno-Oncology & Microtumor Systems

Job Description HJF seeks a Research Associate II to act as a scientist in the Immune-Integrated Microtumors to Assess Immunotherapeutic Efficacy project. The role involves performing advanced laboratory tests—perfusions, co‑cultures, live‑cell imaging, and high‑throughput tumor‑killing assays—to develop micro‑tumor systems that reflect tumor–immune microenvironments for evaluating therapies such as CAR‑T cells and checkpoint blockades. This position is based at the John P. Murtha Cancer Center, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, and will support Dr. Geeta Upadhyay, Scientific Director of the Clinical Breast Care Project. Responsibilities Generate, maintain, and subtype organoids and other primary tissue cultures with rigorous quality control. Execute perfusion‑based co‑culture experiments, integrating autologous immune cells (T cells, B cells, NK cells, myeloid populations) into micro‑tumor systems. Perform high‑throughput tumor‑killing assays and cytokine profiling; operate longitudinal live‑cell imaging platforms to assess immune infiltration and cell kinetics. Analyze immunophenotyping data (flow cytometry/CyTOF) and transcriptomic data; verify and correct data entry to maintain data integrity. Manage reagents and samples, prepare assay documentation, and develop protocols for sample selection and data collection. Train junior laboratory staff and maintain compliance with standard operating procedures. Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisor, including required training attendance. Qualifications Education and Experience: Master’s degree in Immunology, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, or a related field. Minimum of 3‑5 years’ experience in a research laboratory. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Proficiency in mammalian cell culture, including 3‑D cultures, organoids, or microfluidic/perfusion platforms. Experience with transfection, transduction, and clonal selection of cells. Ability to perform immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and confocal microscopy imaging. Familiarity with handling primary human immune cells (PBMCs, T cells, macrophages) and running multiparameter flow cytometry assays. Demonstrated capacity to meet demanding project deadlines, multitask, and maintain audit‑ready laboratory records. Clearable T1/Public Trust background check. Work Environment Laboratory setting. Compensation Annual salary range: $61,000 – $85,000 (based on experience and education). Benefits Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage; health savings and retirement plans; and additional wellness programs. Employment with HJF is contingent upon a successful background check that may include reference verification, employment and education verification, a criminal background check, and a DMV check if applicable. Any qualification deemed equivalent to stated minimums must receive prior approval from the Chief Human Resources Officer. Equal Opportunity Employer HJF is an equal‑opportunity employer. It will not discriminate against employees or applicants for pay inquiries or disclosures, except under specific legal circumstances. This policy applies in accordance with 41 CFR 60‑1.35(c). #J-18808-Ljbffr The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine