Associate Scientist

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

• This individual will perform and support the development of immunological assays used to assess vaccine-induced immune responses.

• The successful candidate will bring strong scientific knowledge, hands-on laboratory experience, and a commitment to generating high-quality, reliable data in a fast-paced research environment.

• The role requires both independent work and close collaboration within a multidisciplinary team.

• Perform immunological assays to evaluate immune responses to vaccine candidates, including:

  • ELISA

  • Neutralization assay with ELISA.

  • Luminex assays

  • Functional antibody assays

  • Cell culture-based assays

• Conduct laboratory work in a BSL-2 environment while adhering to applicable safety and quality standards.

• Analyze, document, and interpret experimental data to ensure accuracy, integrity, and timely reporting.

• Maintain detailed laboratory records, electronic notebooks, and presentation materials.

• Generate, characterize, and track critical reagents used in preclinical and translational vaccine studies.

• Support assay optimization, troubleshooting, and continuous process improvements.

• Collaborate with scientists and cross-functional teams to meet project objectives and timelines.

• Contribute to data presentations, reports, and scientific discussions.

• Laboratory-based position supporting viral vaccine research.

• Work involves handling biological samples (e.g., serum and blood-derived specimens) but does not require direct animal handling.

• Execute immunoassays and cell-based assays according to study schedules.

• Analyze and review experimental data.

• Maintain laboratory documentation and electronic notebooks.

• Prepare summaries, reports, and presentations of research findings.

• Participate in team meetings and scientific discussions supporting vaccine development programs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Immunology, Virology, Biology, Microbiology, or a related life science field.

• Minimum of 2-4 years of relevant laboratory experience in a research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or academic setting.

• Hands-on experience with one or more of the following:

  • ELISA

  • Neutralization assays

  • Luminex assays

  • Cell culture techniques

  • Immunology- or vaccine-related laboratory methods

• Strong understanding of immunology, virology, or vaccine development principles.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint).

• Strong organizational, documentation, and data analysis skills.

• Experience supporting vaccine research or infectious disease programs.

• Familiarity with preclinical or clinical immunogenicity studies.

• Knowledge of assay development, validation, or troubleshooting.

• Experience working within regulated laboratory environments and following data integrity requirements.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data quality.

• High level of accountability and ownership of assigned work.

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Excellent time management and prioritization skills.

• Proactive problem-solving mindset.

• Ability to perform in a fast-paced research environment while meeting deadlines.

Benefits:

Healthcare Insurance: Synectics offers eligible employees and their dependents healthcare coverage through BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois. Eligibility begins on the 1st day of the calendar month following 60 days of continuous full time employment with Synectics. Premiums are subsidized by Synectics.

Dental Insurance: Synectics offers eligible employees and their dependents a dental plan through MetLife. Eligibility begins on the 1st day of the calendar month following 60 days of continuous full time employment with Synectics.

Vision Insurance: Synectics offers eligible employees vision insurance through VSP. Eligibility begins on the 1st day of the calendar month following 60 days of continuous full time employment with Synectics.

401(k) Plan: The Synectics Inc. Investment Savings Retirement Plan. Synectics offers all employees who are 21 years of age or older the opportunity to invest in the 401(k) Plan on the first of the month following at least 1 calendar year after employment begins.

Synectics is an equal opportunity employer.

Synectics is a leading staffing and workforce solutions company dedicated to connecting exceptional talent with top organizations. We specialize in IT, engineering, finance, healthcare, and professional services recruitment, offering both contract and permanent staffing solutions. With a people-first approach, we focus on understanding the unique needs of our clients and candidates to create long-term, successful matches. Our mission is to empower businesses with the right talent while helping professionals achieve rewarding career opportunities

Company Description

Synectics is a leading staffing and workforce solutions company dedicated to connecting exceptional talent with top organizations. We specialize in IT, engineering, finance, healthcare, and professional services recruitment, offering both contract and permanent staffing solutions. With a people-first approach, we focus on understanding the unique needs of our clients and candidates to create long-term, successful matches. Our mission is to empower businesses with the right talent while helping professionals achieve rewarding career opportunities