Research Scientist – Discovery Biosciences, Oncology

Integrated Resources, Inc ( IRI ); Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research organization in Cambridge is seeking a motivated Scientist to join their Oncology Research and Development team for a 7-month contract. This role focuses on wet lab work, conducting innovative research aimed at understanding cancer biology and drug discovery. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biological Sciences, with extensive oncology research experience. Strong analytical skills and effective communication are essential. The position offers a collaborative and dynamic work environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field with a strong research track record.
• Extensive experience in oncology research in an academic or industry setting.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills for experimental protocols.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory-based research on oncology drug discovery.
• Execute various cell and molecular biology assays.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance research.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

Cellular biology techniques

Biochemical assays

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Team collaboration

Effective communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Biological Sciences

Tools

IncuCyte

CellTiter-Glo

CRISPR/Cas9

RNA-seq

Job description

We are seeking a motivated and talented Scientist to join our Oncology Research and Development team on a 7-months contract basis. This position is heavily focused on wet lab work, contributing to cutting‑edge research projects aimed at understanding cancer biology, identifying novel drug targets, and developing new therapeutic approaches. The successful candidate will work in a collaborative and dynamic environment alongside leading scientists in the field of oncology.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct full time laboratory‑based research supporting target identification, oncology drug discovery and development.
• Execute a variety of molecular biology, cellular biology, and biochemical assays, including:
• Maintenance and manipulation of 2D and 3D cell cultures, including spheroids and organoids.
• Lentiviral and nucleofection based gene transfer and genome editing.
• Target gene perturbation using CRISPR/Cas9 and Cas12, shRNA and siRNA.
• Cell viability and cytotoxicity assays using IncuCyte, CellTiter‑Glo, CyQUANT and clonogenic assays.
• Large scale functional genetic and phenotypic screens.
• RT‑qPCR and western blot, sample prepping for RNA‑seq.
• co‑immunoprecipitation (coIP), and other protein interaction studies.
• ELISA, Meso Scale Discovery (MSD), and other immunoassays.
• Design, optimize, and troubleshoot complex cell‑based assays to evaluate therapeutic candidates and understand cancer signaling pathways.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including medicinal chemistry, bioinformatics, and in vivo pharmacology, to advance project goals.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, maintain accurate and detailed lab records, and present findings in team meetings.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, publications, and presentations.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field with extensive and demonstrated track record of experience in conducting oncology research in an academic or industry setting.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with attention to detail and a capacity to troubleshoot experimental protocols.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Extensive experience with oncology research, cancer biology, and drug discovery processes.
• Experience with advanced techniques such as high‑content imaging and flow cytometry.