Senior Research Associate/Associate Scientist, Clinical Pathology / IHC

SystImmune is a leading and well-funded clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company located in Redmond, WA and Princeton, NJ. It specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments using its established drug development platforms, focusing on bi-specific, multi-specific antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). SystImmune has multiple assets in various stages of clinical trials for solid tumor and hematologic indications. Alongside ongoing clinical trials. SystImmune has a robust preclinical pipeline of potential cancer therapeutics in the discover and IND-enabling stages, representing cutting-edge biologics development. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company's success.

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Senior Research Associate / Associate Scientist to support the development, optimization, and validation of immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays. This role will contribute to biomarker development programs supporting clinical trials and may take on increasing ownership of assay optimization and troubleshooting activities. 

The ideal candidate will have 4–6 years of hands-on industry experience in histology, IHC, or a regulated laboratory environment (e.g., CLIA/CAP, GLP), with demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot assays and analyze experimental data. This is a bench-focused role requiring close collaboration with scientists, pathologists, and cross-functional teams. 

This role primarily follows a standard weekday schedule; however, flexibility is required. The candidate should be willing to work shift hours (e.g., 3:00–11:00 PM) and weekends as needed, with adjusted days off during the week (e.g., Tuesday or Wednesday).  

Key Responsibilities 

Histology  

• Perform tissue sectioning of FFPE blocks.  

• Route and support H&E staining workflows.  

IHC Assay Execution & Development 

• Perform routine IHC staining on FFPE tissue specimens using automated platforms (e.g., Ventana, Leica).  

• Conduct antibody titration, protocol optimization, and quality control assessments.  

• Independently troubleshoot assay performance issues, including staining variability, background, and signal optimization.  

• Support and/or lead feasibility, optimization, and analytical validation studies. 

• Experience with multiplex IHC is preferred.  

Sample & Workflow Support 

• Manage tissue samples and associated documentation.  

• Prepare tissue sections, including slide cutting, baking, antigen retrieval, and reagent preparation.  

• Ensure sample integrity, traceability, and compliance with quality system requirements.  

• Support tissue workflows within GLP or CLIA/CAP environments.  

Data Analysis & Documentation 

• Accurately record experimental data in ELN and/or LIMS systems.  

• Perform data review, basic statistical analysis, and interpretation of assay performance.  

• Capture high-quality slide images and support image analysis workflows.  

• Summarize and present experimental results, trends, and troubleshooting findings to internal teams.  

• Assist in preparing reports for assay development and validation studies.  

Instrument & Laboratory Maintenance 

• Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot automated IHC staining platforms and laboratory equipment.  

• Perform routine maintenance and maintain equipment logs per quality system requirements.  

• Manage inventory of reagents, antibodies, and consumables.  

Cross-functional Collaboration 

• Collaborate with scientists, pathologists, QA, and clinical teams on assay transfer, optimization, and validation.  

• Support preparation of study materials, SOPs, and controlled documents.  

• Contribute to continuous improvement of laboratory workflows and assay robustness.  

Qualifications  

• BS or MS in Biology, Molecular Biology, Pathology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field.  

• 4–6 years of hands-on experience in histology and/or IHC assay development in a research or regulated laboratory.  

• Experience with FFPE tissues and automated IHC platforms.  

• Demonstrated troubleshooting skills in assay development or laboratory workflows.  

• Strong attention to detail and documentation practices.  

• Ability to follow SOPs and work in CLIA-, GxP-, or ISO-regulated environments.  

• Willingness to work flexible schedules, including occasional evening shifts and weekends.  

Strongly Preferred 

• Strong data analysis and interpretation skills, including experience summarizing experimental results and identifying trends.  

• Proficiency with statistical and graphing tools such as GraphPad Prism.  

• Experience supporting IHC assay optimization and analytical validation.  

• Exposure to multiplex immunofluorescence.  

• Experience with digital pathology, slide scanning, or image analysis tools.  

• Knowledge of antibody characterization and tissue-based biomarker development. 

Compensation and Benefits:
The expected base salary range for this position is $70,000 - $90,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to a candidate’s level qualifications, experience, and skills.
While most offers typically fall within the low to mid-point of the range, we may extend an offer toward the higher end for exceptional candidates whose background and expertise exceeds the requirements of the role.
 
SystImmune is a leading and well-funded biotech company with a bright future. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success. SystImmune offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 100% paid employee premiums for medical/dental/vision, also STD, LTD, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match of up to 3% and a vesting schedule of only 5 years, 15 PTO days per year, sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays and MORE.
 
We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success.
 
SystImmune is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome diverse talent and encourage all qualified applicants to apply.