Senior Researcher, Molecular Biology

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; New York (NY); On-site; USD 77,000 - 119,000; Full time

Job summary

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City is seeking a Senior Researcher, Molecular Biology to join the RNA Therapeutics Lab. You will help manufacture, characterize, and advance mRNA-based personalized cancer vaccines, building workflows and shaping the lab’s future.

The role emphasizes developing in-house platforms, collaborating across GMP and research teams, training staff, and maintaining rigorous safety and data reporting standards in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or higher degrees with relevant lab experience in molecular biology/biochemistry.
• MS with 4+ years of experience or PhD preferred for advanced roles.
• Strong hands-on molecular biology skills beyond standard cloning techniques.

Responsibilities

• Produce mRNA vaccines using in vitro transcription.
• Develop in-house DNA assembly platforms for rapid template production.
• Investigate and innovate novel mRNA-based and DNA technologies.
• Collaborate with formulation, analytical, R&D, and GMP teams to optimize designs.
• Analyze data, create graphs, and present results at lab meetings.

Skills

Attention to detail

Analytical skills

Multi-project management

Communication skills

Education

BS in molecular biology/biochemistry

MS with 4 years experience

PhD preferred

Job description

About Us:

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 pursueour missionat MSK and around the globe.

Exciting opportunity at MSK: The Olayan Center for Cancer Vaccines, a key pillar in MSK’s immuno-oncology transformation, is seeking a Senior Researcher, Molecular Biology to join our RNA Therapeutics Lab and support manufacture, characterization and innovation of mRNA-based personalized cancer vaccines. This role will focus on innovating up from conventional DNA/RNA production, 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!

Role Overview:

• Production of mRNA vaccines using in vitro transcription for mRNA vaccines.
• Development of in-house DNA assembly platforms for rapid DNA template production and analytical release.
• Drive investigation and innovation of novel mRNA-based and DNA technologies, such as ribozymes, ligation, and mRNA display for clinical and research applications.
• Collaborate with formulation, analytical, research and GMP arms to pursue optimal mRNA designs and processes.
• 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.
• Strong molecular biology skills well beyond conventional cloning techniques

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: NYC
• Schedule: Onsite
• Reporting to the Associate Director

Helpful Links:

• Compensation Philosophy
• Benefits

Pay Range: $77,100.00 - $119,400.00FSLA 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.

Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.