Lentivirus T cell therapy gene-modification scientist

Company Description Tulynode Biosciences Inc. is a biotechnology company dedicated to addressing critical unmet needs in oncology by harnessing each patient’s own immune system. The company focuses on activating autologous immune cells that are specific to an individual’s tumor, aiming to deliver effective and safer cellular therapies with ex vivo manipulation. Tulynode’s gene modification strategy and “Immuno-Pod” platform is designed to expose otherwise inaccessible tumors in vivo, enhancing tumor-specific immune cell activation. This approach seamlessly integrates ex vivo and in vivo processes to create highly personalized, next-generation cancer treatments. Team members have the opportunity to contribute to innovative therapies at the intersection of immunology, gene modification, and oncology.

Role Description The T cell Lentivirus Gene-Modification Scientist will lead experimental design and execution to isolate, expand, and genetically modify T cells. This is a full-time, on-site role based in San Diego, CA. Daily responsibilities include designing and performing T cell modification workflows, that includes optimizing transfection methods for packaging virus, optimizing transduction and characterizing engineered cells using flow cytometry, molecular assays, and functional readouts (e.g., cytotoxicity, cytokine production). Emphasis would be on generating gene modifications of various types using lentiviruses. Experience with design and generation of constructs for transfer/packaging vectors for packaging is essential. Prior experience with expansion and scale up of T cells using standard cell therapy techniques would be a plus. The scientist will analyze and interpret data, maintain detailed electronic lab records, and present findings to cross-functional teams. The role also involves contributing to protocol development, technology transfer, and documentation to support preclinical studies, regulatory submissions, and future clinical translation, while collaborating closely with immunology, bioengineering, and operations teams.

Qualifications

• PhD in Immunology, Immuno-oncology, Oncology or Cell Biology with 2+ years postdoctoral experience followed by at least 2 years of industry experience in T cell biology specializing in gene modification using lentiviruses.
• Strong background in immunology or cellular therapy, with hands-on experience in T-cell biology (CAR-T), including isolation, activation, expansion, and functional assays such as serial kill assays.
• Proficiency in gene-modification techniques especially related to lentiviral transduction is important. Experience with design and generation of CAR and other gene constructs for transfer and packaging followed by packaging of transfer vectors is essential.
• Experience with key analytical methods, including multicolor flow cytometry, ELISA or multiplex cytokine assays, and basic molecular biology (PCR, cloning, qPCR).
• Demonstrated ability to design, execute, and troubleshoot in vitro experiments, perform quantitative data analysis, and clearly communicate results in written and oral formats.
• Familiarity with cell therapy manufacturing principles related to expansion and scale up, aseptic technique, sterile cell culture, and working under defined SOPs or quality guidelines.
• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple experiments, maintain accurate lab notebooks, and meet timelines in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams while contributing independently towards gene-modified T cell product development.