Research Associate I/II - Clinical Pathology/IHC Biomarker Development

Research Associate I/II

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 organized and detail-oriented Research Associate I/II to support the development, optimization, and validation of immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays. This role will contribute to early-stage biomarker in support of clinical trial programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform tissue sectioning of FFPE blocks.
• Route and support H&E staining workflows.
• Perform routine IHC staining on FFPE tissue specimens using automated platforms (e.g., Ventana, Leica).
• Conduct antibody titrations, protocol optimization, slide preparation, and quality control checks.
• Assist in generating feasibility, optimization, and analytical validation data for emerging CDx assays.
• Manage tissue samples and associated documentation.
• Prepare tissue sections, including slide cutting, baking, antigen retrieval, and reagent preparation.
• Maintain sample integrity, traceability, and documentation in compliance with quality system requirements.
• Support tissue handling workflows (blocks, slides, labeling, storage) within GLP or CLIA/CAP environments.
• Accurately record experimental data in ELN and/or LIMS systems.
• Capture high-quality slide images and perform basic image analysis.
• Assist with slide scoring preparation and data summaries.
• Summarize experimental findings for internal meetings and assay development reviews.
• Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot automated IHC staining platforms and related laboratory equipment.
• Perform routine instrument maintenance and maintain equipment logs per laboratory quality systems.
• Monitor and manage inventory of reagents, antibodies, controls, and consumables.
• Collaborate with scientists, pathologists, QA, and clinical development teams on assay transfer, optimization, and validation activities.
• Support preparation of study materials, controlled documents, and protocol execution for validation studies.

Qualifications Required

• BS or MS in Biology, Molecular Biology, Pathology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field.
• 1–3 years of hands-on experience in histology and/or IHC assay execution within a research or regulated diagnostic laboratory.
• Experience handling FFPE tissues and operating automated IHC staining platforms.
• Strong attention to detail with excellent documentation and record-keeping practices.
• Ability to follow SOPs and work effectively in CLIA-, GxP-, or ISO-regulated environments.

Preferred

• Experience supporting IHC assay optimization and/or analytical validation studies.
• Exposure to Akoya platforms and multiplex immunofluorescence projects.
• Experience with digital pathology, slide scanning, or image analysis tools.
• Knowledge of antibody characterization and tissue-based biomarker assay development.

Compensation and Benefits: The expected base salary range for this position is $60,000 - $80,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to a candidate's 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. SystImmune is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome diverse talent and encourage all qualified applicants to apply.