Job Description

Associate Scientist / Scientist, Immunology & Pharmacology
Six-month contract with potential extension or conversion to a full-time position
PharmaEssentia Innovation Research Center (PIRC)
Bedford MA

The Opportunity
PharmaEssentia Innovation Research Center (PIRC) is expanding its drug discovery organization and is seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist or Scientist to join the Primary Cell Platform Group within the Immunology & Pharmacology Department. The successful candidate will bring hands-on expertise in immunology, immuno-oncology, and translational pharmacology.
This laboratory-based role will design, develop, and execute in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo pharmacology studies that generate decision-enabling data for early-stage therapeutic programs. The final title will be determined based on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

Key Responsibilities

Pharmacology & Assay Development
• Design, develop, optimize, and execute in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo pharmacology studies to characterize target biology and evaluate therapeutic candidates.
• Develop functional immunology assays using human and murine primary immune cells and established cell lines.
• Generate high-quality, reproducible datasets and maintain complete, accurate experimental records to support discovery-stage decisions and program progression.
• Apply mechanistic knowledge of immunology, immuno-oncology, and disease biology to interpret results, troubleshoot assays, and recommend next steps.

Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across biologics discovery, translational science, bioinformatics/data science, and related functions to advance program objectives.
• Coordinate effectively with external CRO partners and communicate analyses, interpretations, project updates, risks, and proposed solutions in a timely manner.

Scientific Communication
• Present clear, data-driven findings, conclusions, and recommendations to internal and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to study plans, protocols, reports, presentations, and other scientific documentation.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Immunology, Pharmacology, Oncology, Cell Biology, or a related discipline. Title will be aligned as per experience and seniority.
• Hands-on experience supporting immunology and/or oncology drug discovery programs.
• At least 2 years of relevant research experience in academia and/or industry; an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Experiences in the drug discovery field for homological malignancy, such as MDS, MPN, AML, Lymphoma and Leukemia are preferred, but not essential.

Technical Expertise
• Hands-on experience with human primary immune cell assays and translational pharmacology workflows.
• Proficiency in multicolor flow cytometry (including FACS), ELISA, Meso Scale Discovery (MSD), and related immunological assay platforms.
• Demonstrated ability to design, conduct, and analyze in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo experiments that assess target biology, mechanism of action, and therapeutic activity.
• Experience developing functional assays using human and murine primary immune cells and established cell lines.

Core Competencies
• Strong hands-on laboratory, analytical, experimental-design, and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced research environment.
• Clear written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and consistent adherence to approved procedures and protocols.
• Intellectual curiosity, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning and development.

Why Join PIRC

• Opportunity to directly influence early-stage therapeutic innovation and pipeline strategy.
• Collaborative and science-driven research culture.