(Senior) Scientist, Translational Sciences

The role:

Dispatch is seeking a Scientist/Senior Scientist to join our Translational Sciences team as a dedicated owner of in-house clinical biomarker assay execution. Reporting to the Director of Translational Sciences, this individual will develop proficiency in our existing translational assay portfolio, including ddPCR, flow cytometry, single-cell RNA-seq sample processing, and MSD immunoassays, and will rapidly take independent ownership of clinical sample testing. The individual will also support oversight of external bioanalytical CROs, including vendor scoping and contracting, assay transfer, validation review, and data reconciliation, and will help build exploratory biomarker capabilities for future programs. This person will collaborate closely with colleagues across Research, Discovery, Clinical Development, and other R&D functions, as well as external CRO and vendor partners.  Candidates will be considered at the Scientist II, III or Senior Scientist level, based on qualifications and experience.

Key responsibilities:

• Execute in-house translational assays on clinical samples (i.e., ddPCR, flow cytometry, single-cell sequencing sample preparation, immunoassays, etc.), with independent ownership of routine testing
• Serve as a technical resource across the in-house assay portfolio, training colleagues as needed to ensure continuity and timely delivery of quality clinical biomarker data
• Contribute to the development and implementation of new and exploratory biomarker methods to support future programs
• Support oversight of external bioanalytical CROs and vendors, including assay transfer, review of bioanalytical plans and validation documents, and data review
• Support vendor scoping, contracting, and change-order management for external bioanalytical work
• Help maintain systems for tracking samples, data, and critical reagent inventory across internal and external testing
• Analyze, interpret, and reconcile biomarker data across internal and external sources, maintaining high-quality documentation
• Communicate results and progress to Translational Sciences, Clinical Development, and other cross-functional teams
• Stay current with the field through attendance and presentation at seminars, journal clubs, and team meetings, and pursue ongoing scientific and professional development

Required experience & skills:

• Ph.D. in a relevant field (e.g., immunology, molecular biology, cell biology) with related postdoctoral or industry experience; candidates with a Master’s or Bachelor’s degree and commensurate industry experience will also be considered
• At least one year of hands-on experience with translational and clinical sample assays (i.e., ddPCR, multiparameter flow cytometry, ligand-binding immunoassays, etc.)
• Experience working with CROs or external vendors on bioanalytical activities, such as assay transfer and validation
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional environment
• Proficiency with electronic lab notebooks (ELN) and data analysis tools (e.g., Benchling, GraphPad Prism, FlowJo, OMIQ, Loupe Browser, Spotfire, Excel)
• Strong attention to detail, with a commitment to accurate and timely documentation
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving and time management skills
• Positive attitude, dedicated work ethic and flexible orientation for operating in a fast-paced environment
• Strong verbal and written communication skills

Preferred experience & skills:

• Experience in the biotechnology/pharmaceutical industry
• Background in cell and gene therapy
• Experience with international clinical trials or global bioanalytical vendors
• Prior experience with vendor contract scoping and management

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