Principal Scientist, Immunology

Position Overview

Tonix is seeking a highly motivated and innovative Principal Scientist with a background in immunology, autoimmunity or oncology to contribute to research and development across our growing immunology portfolio. This is an excellent opportunity to directly participate and obtain exposure to the end-to-end product development process including early-stage therapeutic discovery, nonclinical safety and pharmacological evaluation, cGMP manufacturing and clinical evaluation. The candidate will have a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in a relevant field, a strong publication record, and experience working in an interdisciplinary team environment.  The position is located at the Tonix Research and Development Center (RDC) which is the innovation and development arm of Tonix Pharmaceuticals.  The RDC houses state-of-the-art equipment (i.e., high content imaging, mass spectrometry, spectral flow cytometry, multi-parallel bioreactors, etc.) and is responsible for development of efficient and cutting-edge treatment methods for various diseases including infectious diseases, oncology, and other indications.  This position will require an in-depth knowledge of in-vivo immunology and/or virology; will involve organizing and implementing complex research plans, developing methods of testing, data collection and analysis; and will involve writing reports containing descriptive, analytical, and evaluative content. The duties will also require the exercise of independent discretion and judgment in carrying out research activities within the predetermined research scope.  Experience in the composition of scientific publications, research program technical reports, and research grants is required.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain a robust flow cytometry pipeline to support in-depth immunology research. 
• Conduct independent and original research supporting the Tonix portfolio and RDC mission
• Develop novel methods and assays to contribute to the RDC research pipeline
• Establish in-vitro and in-vivo models to support evaluation of immunotherapeutics against diverse disease conditions (e.g., autoimmunity, oncology)
• Collection, analysis, and evaluation of data
• Interpret data, make decisions, and conduct troubleshooting on related technical issues
• Preparation of scientific presentations, reports, manuscripts, and grant proposals

This is a fast-paced challenging position offering competitive compensation and benefits package.  This position will report to the Director of Immunology and will be based at the Tonix Research and Development Center in Frederick, Maryland.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Design, optimize, and standardize novel in-house flow cytometry assays, ensuring consistent reliability and reproducibility of screening outcomes.
• Establish multi-parameter flow cytometry panels using spectra flow cytometry and define data acquisition and analysis pipelines to support RDC programs
• Provide scientific leadership and expertise in cell-based, molecular, and biochemical assays, while ensuring rigorous experimental data analysis.
• Independently troubleshoot, problem-solve, and execute experiments, while effectively incorporating feedback and adapting to evolving project needs.
• Work cross-functionally in a matrix environment, partnering with project and functional teams to drive research objectives forward.
• Characterize and assess binding properties of novel proteins and antibodies using cutting-edge technologies, including Octet, high-content plate-based imaging, and novel reporter-based assays.
• Lead and participate in cross-functional project teams, proposing innovative discoveries and optimization strategies that align with industry’s best practices.
• Integrate cross-functional inputs to develop a robust, strategic R&D plan, ensuring alignment with Tonix’s innovation goals.
• Uphold company mission and values, emphasizing accountability, innovation, integrity, quality, and teamwork.
• Support special projects and business initiatives as needed to contribute to Tonix's broader corporate strategy.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D., or equivalent doctoral degree 
• Strong accomplishment record demonstrating the ability to perform independent, high-quality, creative, and impactful research in the field of application of viral vectors as vaccines against deadly pathogens and antibody or protein design and discovery
• Ability to generate hypothesis to test ideas, use the data set to evaluate hypothesis, and design new studies 
• Ability to apply multiple cutting-edge techniques for drug screening, such as high-content imaging, microscopy, and cell-based screening
• Sound working experience in industry or biological context, and the ability to interrogate large data sets using computational tools and application of bioinformatic to dissect complicated data sets such as high throughput data a plus
• Ability for minimal travel
• Dedicated team player who can withstand the high demands of a fast-paced environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential
• Strong planning and organizational skills
• Comfortable working independently with minimal supervision
• Highly organized, results-driven, problem solver, and collaborator
• Demonstrated ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodation