Researcher 3-Medical Oncology

Ohio State University; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ohio State University seeks a Researcher 3 in the Immune Monitoring and Discovery Platform (IMDP) to advance immuno‑oncology studies. You will design experiments, optimize cytometry assays, train researchers, and maintain critical instrumentation across state‑of‑the‑art platforms.

Candidates should hold a Master’s degree (PhD preferred) with 3+ years of research experience; more experience with BA or in higher roles is valued.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree required; PhD or equivalent experience strongly preferred.
• 3 years relevant research experience required, 5–6 years of relevant research experience with a BA.
• 6–8 years of relevant experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Establish and implement SOPs for instrument maintenance and performance evaluation.
• Provide training for technicians and investigators on instrumentation and data transfer.
• Collaborate to design experiments and optimize assays; advise on data analysis approaches.
• Manage inventory and budgeting; ensure safety compliance in BSL‑2 lab.
• Identify and deploy new immune monitoring technologies and analytical methods.

Skills

Immunology

Training & supervision

Data analysis

Education

Master’s degree

PhD

Tools

FlowJo

DiVa

Omiq

InForm

Job description

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Job Title: Researcher 3 - Medical Oncology Department: Medicine | IM Medical Oncology

Overview

The Immune Monitoring and Discovery Platform (IMDP), within the OSUCCC–James Pelotonia Institute for Immuno‑Oncology, provides advanced technologies to analyze the immune system’s response to cancer and immunotherapy. The IMDP supports basic, translational, and clinical immuno‑oncology studies through cutting‑edge platforms including spectral flow cytometry, cell sorting, spatial imaging, and single‑cell analysis technologies. Core technologies include Cytek Aurora Spectral Cell Sorter, Cytek Aurora Spectral Analyzer, Cytek Northern Lights, BD FACSMelody, PhenoImager HT (Vectra), EVOS, Xenium Analyzer, and associated analytical platforms.

Position Summary

The Researcher Scientist supports the Immune Monitoring and Discovery Platform by providing scientific and technical expertise in immune monitoring technologies, cytometry, and advanced data analysis workflows. This role partners closely with investigators to design and optimize experiments, train researchers, maintain instrumentation, and implement emerging technologies that enhance immuno‑oncology research across the institute.

Key Responsibilities

Instrument Maintenance, Standardization, and Quality Assurance

Establish and implement Standard Operating Procedures for routine instrument maintenance and performance evaluation. Perform instrument setup and acquisition of samples independently. Conduct calibration, alignment, troubleshooting, repair, and preventative maintenance of cytometers and associated facility instruments. Document instrument performance, maintenance activities, service records, and corrective actions.

Training and User Support

Provide training for technicians and investigators on technology fundamentals, instrument operation, startup/shutdown procedures, maintenance, data acquisition, and data transfer. Educate core laboratory users regarding sample requirements and best practices for experimental success.

Experimental Design and Method Optimization

Collaborate with the Platform Director and investigators to design experiments and optimize assays. Advise investigators regarding experimental design and data analysis approaches. Work independently or with the Director to develop analysis strategies and present new assays and technologies to research groups.

Core Operations and Resource Management

Assess inventory and order supplies as needed. Manage operations within laboratory safety guidelines for instrument operation as well as chemical and biological safety standards. Maintain reporting and billing systems, assist with cost recovery processes, and contribute to budgeting and operational planning.

Technology Development and Innovation

Maintain technical expertise in emerging immune monitoring technologies. Identify, evaluate, and deploy new platforms, reagents, and analytical methods that enhance the platform’s capabilities and support investigator needs.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree required; PhD or equivalent experience strongly preferred.
• 3 years relevant research experience required, 5–6 years of relevant research experience with a BA.
• 6–8 years of relevant experience preferred.

Experience

• Proficient knowledge of immunology and immune monitoring techniques.
• Demonstrated success training and supervising researchers and trainees.
• Experience with cytometry data analysis platforms such as FlowJo, DiVa, Omiq, and InForm.
• Strong skills in preparing figures and analyses for scientific presentations and publications.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and common scientific software tools.
• Training in bacteriological, viral, chemical, and physical safety procedures.
• Ability to work safely in a BSL‑2 laboratory environment.
• Proficiency with Macintosh and PC systems.

Function: Research and Scholarship

Sub Function: Research

Career Band: Individual Contributor - Specialized

Career Level: S3

Additional Information: Application Requirements

Applicants should submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three professional references.

The 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. Established in 2019 through a $102 million commitment from Pelotonia, PIIO supports innovative discovery and translational research in immuno‑oncology. The institute integrates systems immunology, translational therapeutics, and advanced analytics to accelerate the development of new cancer immunotherapies.

The OSUCCC – James is an NCI‑designated comprehensive cancer center rated “Exceptional,” the highest designation awarded by the National Cancer Institute. The center conducts phase I, II, and III clinical trials and includes one of the largest freestanding cancer hospitals in the United States. The Ohio State University is an EOE/AA/M/F/D/V employer.

Location: Pelotonia Research Center (1040)

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.

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