Senior Researcher, Molecular Biology

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; United States; On-site; USD 77,000 - 119,000; Full time

Job summary

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) in New York City seeks a Senior Researcher, Molecular Biology to join the RNA Therapeutics Lab. You will help build the lab, drive design and process improvements, and contribute to mRNA vaccine development from concept to implementation.

You will lead production of mRNA vaccines, develop rapid DNA assembly platforms, and collaborate with GMP teams. Strong analytical, communication, and project management skills are essential.

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Collaborate with formulation, analytical, research and GMP arms to pursue optimal mRNA designs and processes.
• Analyzing data and creating graphs using software (e.g., SoftMax Pro, Excel, Prism) and presenting data at lab meetings.
• Perform routine maintenance, operation and inventory for lab instruments and reagents.

Skills

Attention to detail

Education

BS in molecular biology/biochemistry

MS with 4 years experience

PhD preferred

Tools

SoftMax Pro

Excel

Prism

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.

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 - $119,400.00

FSLA Status: Exempt

Closing: At MSK, we believe in fair, competitive pay that reflects your job, experience, and skills.

Equal Opportunity & Diversity Statement

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.

Team and Culture

Our multi-disciplinary teams work together to provide exceptional patient care, develop innovative research, and deliver outstanding educational programs. Learn More The people of MSK make this an incredible place to work, grow and make a difference. Discover what makes us unique