Research Scientist I, Cancer Cell Model Development and Resistance Project

Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent research institution in Cambridge, MA, is seeking a Research Scientist I to develop advanced cellular models for cancer studies. The ideal candidate will hold a Ph.D. in a biological science and have 2+ years of postdoctoral or industry experience. Key responsibilities include leading experimental designs, mentoring junior associates, and collaborating on oncology research initiatives. The salary range is between $70,000 and $90,000 per year.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a biological science and completed or soon-to-be-completed postdoctoral fellowship.
• Preferred 2+ years of experience as a postdoc or in the industry.
• Experience in cell biology with a focus on method development.

Responsibilities

• Lead experimental design for cell model development.
• Serve as the technical lead for cell model development efforts.
• Validate cell models through various sequencing technologies.
• Lead drug resistance modeling projects.
• Manage and mentor Research Associates.

Skills

Expertise in molecular and cell biology techniques

Strong communication skills

Organizational and time management skills

Problem-solving skills

Curiosity and self-motivation

Experience in mentoring junior associates

Education

Ph.D. in biological science

Tools

Flow cytometry

Western blotting

Immunofluorescence

ELISA

3D cell culturing

Job description

Overview

Research Scientist I, Cancer Cell Model Development and Resistance Project at Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. The primary goal of this role is to develop advanced laboratory cellular models to enable functional genomics, drug screening, and drug resistance studies. The work focuses on deriving 3D models for pediatric and rare cancers, with an initial pilot to generate cancer-resistant cell lines for major oncology drugs. This position offers opportunities to build leadership skills while collaborating with senior group leaders.

Responsibilities

• Lead experimental design for cell model development, implement newly developed protocols, and conduct proof-of-concept studies to evaluate feasibility and optimize workflows.
• Serve as the technical lead and subject matter expert for cell model development efforts, driving strategic improvements to enhance efficiency, success rates, and overall platform capabilities.
• Validate cell models through sequencing technologies and oversee model fidelity assessments using flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, western blotting, and other relevant assays in collaboration with internal Scientists and Research Associates.
• Lead drug resistance modeling projects to establish oncology drug-resistant clones for functional genomics analyses.
• Manage and mentor Research Associates, fostering scientific and professional growth while ensuring high-quality data generation.
• Collaborate with Sellers Lab, Getz Lab, Cancer Dependency Map, PRISM drug screening, Cancer Genomics, and Cancer Data Sciences teams to advance research initiatives and share expertise.
• Coordinate with cancer genomics core staff to integrate experimental data with genomic insights for comprehensive analysis and interpretation.
• Identify opportunities for platform innovation and expansion to address emerging scientific needs and challenges.
• Partner with internal teams on large-molecule discovery and validation efforts to support broader oncology research goals.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in a biological science (such as cell biology, biochemistry, cancer biology, or related field) and a completed or soon-to-be-completed postdoctoral fellowship in a similar field.
• Preferred 2+ years of experience as a postdoc or in the industry.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with strong attention to detail.
• Experience in cell biology with a focus on method development, team management, and mentoring junior research associates is highly desirable.
• Self-motivated and curious, with the ability to lead scientific research effectively.
• Demonstrated excellent problem-solving and communication skills with leadership, colleagues, and junior research associates.
• Track record of independently delivering scientific results.
• Expertise in molecular and cell biology techniques, including flow cytometry, immunofluorescence staining, Western blotting, ELISA, HTS cell culturing, 3D cell culturing, drug testing, etc.
• Impeccable and efficient experimental design, assay development, and execution.
• Strong commitment to "leading from the bench".
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills, ability to perform detailed data analysis, and accurate record-keeping to support the cell model team members.
• Extensive experience in following and improving assay protocols is preferred.

Location

Cambridge, MA

Compensation

Salary range listed: $70,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year