Senior Researcher, RNA Therapeutics Lab - RNA

Job details

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 pursue our mission at MSK and around the globe.

Role Overview:

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 Researcher – RNA to join our RNA Therapeutics Lab and support immune manufacture, characterization, and innovation of mRNA-based personalized cancer vaccines. This role will focus on building up DNA/RNA production and analytical capacity, as well as driving design and process development improvements to the platform.

You will have a unique opportunity to help build the lab from the ground up, shape workflows, and pioneer new approaches. You won’t just be joining a lab – you’ll be helping to design it, define it, and set the stage for years of discovery!

Responsibilities include:

- Production of mRNA vaccines using in vitro transcription for mRNA vaccines for preclinical evaluation.
- Initial characterization of both RNA and DNA to ensure delivery of drug substance that meets critical quality attributes.
- Optimize design and process parameters to ensure efficient production of highly potent mRNA.
- Evaluate multiple DNA-based platforms for optimal mRNA potency and process parameters
- Build up robust and well-documented processes for both DNA and RNA for tech transfer to GMP operations.
- Drive investigation and innovation of novel mRNA-based technologies, including alternate cap molecules, circular/self-amplifying mRNAs, and chemical synthesis techniques
- Collaborate with formulation, analytical, research and GMP arms to pursue optimal mRNA designs 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: microplate readers, IVT reagents, electrophoretic instrumentation, Tapestation, 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 molecular biology/biochemistry or related field with 7 years of relevant experience, or M.S. with 4 years of experience.

- Ph.D is 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

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The Olayan Center for Cancer Vaccines

Pay Range: $75,500.00 - $116,900.00

FSLA Status: Exempt

Closing:

At MSK, we believe in fair, competitive pay that reflects your job, experience, and skills.

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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