Researcher 3-Comprehensive Cancer Center

The Ohio State University; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ohio State University invites applications for a Researcher 3 position in the Comprehensive Cancer Center (OSUCCC - James). The role focuses on translational cancer immunology studies, including anti-tumor immune responses, immune checkpoint biology, and cancer vaccines.

Strong expertise in cellular/molecular immunology and in vivo models is required. Responsibilities include developing methods, analyzing complex data, contributing to publications and grants, and mentoring lab personnel

Qualifications

• Requires Master's degree or equivalent; five years of relevant experience with a bachelor’s, or three years with a master's.
• Relevant fields: Immunology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Cancer Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Oncology.
• Ability to perform complex experiments, analyze data, solve non-routine problems, and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong organizational, analytical, scientific-writing, presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work across collaborative teams, provide guidance, and build consensus.
• Background check and pre-employment screenings may be required.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct complex translational cancer immunology studies.
• Develop and optimize methods; analyze and interpret data.
• Contribute to publications and grant applications; mentor laboratory personnel.

Skills

Independent experimentation

Data analysis & interpretation

Scientific writing & presentation

Collaborative teamwork

Problem solving & prioritization

Education

Master's degree or equivalent experience

Experience: 5 years with a bachelor OR 3 years with a master's

Tools

Flow cytometry

Mammalian cell culture

Molecular biology techniques

Job description

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Job Title: Researcher 3 – Comprehensive Cancer Center Department: CCC | Comprehensive Cancer Center

The Researcher 3 will serve as a senior research professional in the laboratory of Dr. Hassane Zarour at the OSUCCC - James Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO). The position will independently plan and conduct complex, large‑scope translational cancer immunology studies focused on anti‑tumor immune responses, immune dysfunction, immune checkpoint biology, cancer vaccines, and therapeutic strategies to improve immunotherapy outcomes in melanoma and other cancers.

The Researcher 3 will apply advanced expertise in cellular and molecular immunology, experimental therapeutics, and in vivo models; develop and optimize methods; analyze and interpret complex data; contribute substantively to publications and grant applications; and serve as an experienced scientific resource for laboratory personnel and collaborators.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree or equivalent experience required; five years of relevant experience with a bachelor’s degree, or three years of relevant experience with a master’s degree.
• Relevant education or experience in Immunology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Cancer Biology, Medical Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, Oncology, or a related field.
• Demonstrated ability to independently perform complex scientific experimentation, analyze and interpret data, solve non‑routine problems, and manage multiple research priorities.
• Strong organizational, analytical, scientific‑writing, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively across collaborative research teams, provide technical guidance, and build consensus on scientific matters.
• Successful completion of a background check and any required pre‑employment screenings.

Preferred Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in Medical Biotechnology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field.
• Experience with cancer immunotherapy, cancer‑vaccine development, T‑cell biology, antigen uptake and cross‑presentation, or immune‑checkpoint research.
• Experience with genetic engineering, viral‑vector design and production, lipid‑nanoparticle or viral‑like‑particle vaccine platforms, recombinant proteins, or engineered immune cells.
• Experience with multicolor flow cytometry, mammalian cell culture, molecular biology, protein expression and purification, chromatography or FPLC, and related analytical methods.
• Experience designing and conducting in vivo tumor or immunogenicity studies and evaluating cellular and humoral immune responses.
• Record of peer‑reviewed publications, scientific presentations, and substantive contributions to manuscripts and grant applications.
• Experience leading independent research projects and training, supervising, or mentoring laboratory personnel, students, or trainees.

Additional Information

The OSUCCC - James is the only cancer program in the United States that features a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center aligned with a nationally ranked academic medical center and a freestanding cancer hospital on the campus of one of the nation’s largest public universities.

The OSUCCC - James Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO) is a comprehensive bench‑to‑bedside research initiative focused on harnessing the body’s immune system to fight cancer at all levels, from prevention to treatment and survivorship. Researchers benefit from an enriching scientific environment led by world‑renowned investigators in cancer immunotherapy, complemented by a robust seminar series, access to top‑tier research facilities, and a collaborative culture focused on advancing discoveries in cancer care.

Location: Biomedical Research Tower (0112) Position Type: Regular Scheduled Hours: 40 Shift: First Shift Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post‑offer process.

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The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.