Senior Research Assistant, RNA Therapeutics Lab - Formulation

The people of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) are united by a singular mission: ending cancer for life. Our specialized care teams provide personalized, compassionate, expert care to patients of all ages. Informed by basic research done at our Sloan Kettering Institute, scientists across MSK collaborate to conduct innovative translational and clinical research that is driving a revolution in our understanding of cancer as a disease and improving the ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat it. MSK is dedicated to training the next generation of scientists and clinicians, who go on to pursueour missionat MSK and around the globe.

Exciting opportunity at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center!

Are you passionate about groundbreaking research and advancing cancer treatment? The Olayan Center for Cancer Vaccines, a key pillar in MSK's immuno-oncology transformation, is seeking a Senior Research Assistant - Formulation to join our RNA Therapeutics Lab to support immune manufacture, characterization and innovation of mRNA-based personalized cancer vaccines. This role will focus on building up RNA formulation (LNP, lipoplex, liposome, etc.) production, purification and analytical capacity, as well as driving design and process development improvements to the platform.

If you're eager to be part of a world-renowned research institution and make a tangible impact on cancer treatment, apply today!

Role Overview:

Formulate mRNA-based vaccines using LNP's, lipoplexes, liposomes, etc. to generate drug product for preclinical evaluation
• Initial characterization of drug product to ensure delivery that meets critical quality attributes
• Optimize formulation composition and process parameters to ensure optimal delivery
• Build up robust and well-documented processes for both DNA and RNA for tech transfer to GMP operations
• Drive investigation and innovation of novel lipid-based and other delivery technologies for mRNA-based vaccines
• Collaborate with drug substance, analytical, research and GMP arms to pursue optimal formulation strategies and processes
• Draft laboratory standard operating procedures for assays and routine methodologies for tech transfer to GMP operations
• Analyzing data and creating graphs using appropriate software (e.g., SoftMax Pro, Excel, Prism) and data visualization tools; writing reports of results and methods used and presenting data at regular lab meetings.
• Perform routine maintenance, operation and inventory for a variety of laboratory instruments and reagents, which may include, but are not limited to: Nanoassembler, TFF, microplate readers, purification cassettes, centrifuges
• Following proper safety recommendations and handling procedures for different biological and chemical materials and ensuring others in the laboratory adhere to proper safety procedures.
• Training other laboratory personnel as needed.
• Performing all other duties as assigned.

Key Qualifications:

• B.S. in biology or related field with 7 years of relevant experience, or M.S. with 4 years of experience.
• Ph.D in bioengineering/biochemistry/other related fields; >2 years of experience after the Ph.D preferred.

Core Skills:

• Exceptional attention to detail and strong analytical skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced research environment, managing multiple projects while maintaining precision.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot experimental challenges.
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to interact across all levels in a confident, concise, professional manner.
• Enthusiasm and dedication to MSK's vision, mission and values.

Additional Information:

• Location: Zuckerman, 417 E 68th Street, NYC
• Schedule: Onsite

Pay Range: $77,500 - $116,900

Helpful Links:

• MSK Compensation Philosophy
• Review our great benefits offerings
• The Olayan Center for Cancer Vaccines

#LI-Onsite

MSK is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of recruiting and employment. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran status or any other factor which cannot lawfully be used as a basis for an employment decision.

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