Senior Research Associate/Associate Scientist, Clinical Pathology / IHC

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 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

SystImmune is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome diverse talent and encourage all qualified applicants to apply.