Research Associate

About the Role

A Research Associate position is currently available in the Center for Advanced Innate Cell Therapy within the Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers. The position will be part of an interdisciplinary team of laboratory and clinical investigators focused on developing novel forms of cancer immunotherapy. The Research Associate will focus on designing advanced clinical and translational research experiments and protocols, ensuring meticulous execution of approved protocols, and the development of Center SOPs and workflows.

Responsibilities

• Independent Experimental Design and Data Analysis (40%):
  • Independently designs and executes experiments.
  • Troubleshoots protocols as needed.
  • Performs lab techniques including advanced cell culture, killing assays, cytokine production measurement, DNA/RNA/protein quantification, multiparametric flow cytometry, and fluorescent microscopy-based CO detection.
  • Independently analyzes and interprets experimental data.
  • Contributes prepared data and conclusions for inclusion in peer-reviewed manuscripts.
• Process Ownership and SOP Development (35%):
  • Contributes to process development and revision for clinical-grade cell therapy product production (GMP Lab, clinical trials).
  • Drafts, refines, and implements SOPs for research (basic and clinical) and clinical GMP-aligned workflows with attention to critical federal, state, and industry regulations and patient safety.
  • Ensures smooth change management for new and/or updated protocols.
• General Lab Management (25%):
  • Oversees the maintenance of lab equipment and environment.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Basic Science or a related field. Experience in lieu of degree will not be accepted.
• Three years of relevant experience typically as a Research Assistant, Research Technician, or Postdoctoral Fellow/Associate.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD
• Experience with translational research techniques, genetic engineering, and oncological/immunological disease manifestations

Work Authorization Requirement: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout the duration of employment.