Position Overview: Scientist I - Discovery Sciences

The successful candidate will be primarily responsible for the design and execution of therapeutic antibody or small molecule immunoassays, cell-based assays, and analyte quantitation for research, preclinical, and early drug development projects. This role requires solid knowledge of cellular immunology, immuno-oncology, therapeutics of various modalities (i.e. small molecule, biologics, antibody conjugates, cell-based (CAR-T), etc.), along with associated lab skills (i.e. flow cytometry, tissue culture, cell-based assays, etc.).

As a CRO, we operate in a fast-paced, highly collaborative environment. After an initial training period, the Scientist I is expected to work independently, rapidly adapt to shifting priorities, and confidently execute and interpret assay results. You will manage multiple client projects concurrently, coordinate with internal teams, and communicate directly with clients.

The person who thrives at iQ is a hands-on, delivery-oriented immunologist who is comfortable owning a project end-to-end. Whether working from a complete SOW or navigating ambiguity, they communicate with clarity and confidence internally and externally, find the breadth of therapeutic exposure energizing rather than distracting, hold themselves accountable for timelines as a matter of professional pride, and know their data directly informs patient therapeutic decisions.

Responsibilities:

Project Execution & Study Management:

• Design, plan, and execute experiments for client projects and internal R&D under general guidance.
• Proactively manage day-to-day study logistics, including reagent preparation/ordering, experimental execution, data analysis, and preparation of summaries.
• Provide timely updates to internal stakeholders and adapt to evolving project needs.

Assay Development & Laboratory Work:

• Perform in vitro, ex vivo, and cell-based assays (e.g., cytotoxicity assays, ELISAs, reporter assays) to support functional characterization of therapeutics.
• Perform multi-color flow cytometry experiments, including panel design, sample preparation, staining, data acquisition, and analysis.
• Support development and optimization of new or existing assays as needed.

Data Analysis & Reporting:

• Analyze and interpret experimental data with attention to detail and scientific accuracy. Prepare clear data summaries and contribute to drafting study reports, presentations, and client deliverables. Maintain accurate and organized experimental records.
• Utilize internal tools and assist in the onboarding of emerging technologies (including AI-enabled tools, as available) to support data analysis, visualization, and reporting efficiency.

Troubleshooting & Scientific Learning:

• Troubleshoot experimental challenges by reviewing data, protocols, and relevant literature, escalating complex issues to senior team members as appropriate. Apply scientific knowledge to support experimental design and contribute to problem-solving discussions.
• Continue to build technical expertise through training and independent literature review.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Work collaboratively to ensure successful study execution, communicating progress, challenges, and results clearly to colleagues and project leads.
• Participate in team meetings, contribute to onboarding and training efforts, and collaborate across functions to advance project goals.

Laboratory Operations:

• Perform routine lab activities, including cell culture, primary cell isolation (murine and/or human, as trained), reagent preparation, and maintenance of laboratory equipment. Follow established protocols and ensure compliance with lab standards. Prepare shipments and manage inventory as needed.

Systems & Documentation:

• Utilize internal systems (e.g., LIMS, project management tools such as Zoho) to track experiments, materials, and study progress. Ensure proper documentation and data integrity.

Requirements:

• Education & Experience: B.S. with >10 years experience, M.S. with >5 years experience, or Ph.D. with 0-3 years of experience in Immunology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Technical Expertise: Extensive experience with sterile technique (preferably mammalian cell culture) and the ability to develop and optimize assays.
• Adaptability & Urgency: Highly proactive, flexible, and capable of managing multiple projects concurrently in a fast-paced setting. Must be able to adapt quickly to changing priorities and learn new techniques efficiently.
• Communication: Excellent oral presentation and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with internal teams and external clients.
• Organization: Exceptional attention to detail and record-keeping skills. General computer literacy (Microsoft Office)

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift and move objects weighing up to 25 pounds approximately 5 to 10 times per day/shift.
• Must be able to stand and walk continuously throughout an 8-hour shift.
• Must comply with laboratory policies and procedures.

Activity: Lifting Large Shipping Boxes

• Frequency: 0-1 time(s) per day
• Item Dimensions: 18"H x 12"W x 13"D
• Weight: 40 lbs
• Starting Height: 43"
• Finish Height: 0"
• Distance from Body: 5"

Activity: Lifting Liquid Nitrogen Racks

• Frequency: ~5-10 times per day
• Item Dimensions: 33" H x 6" W x 6" D
• Weight: 25 lbs.
• Starting Grip Height: 43"
• Finish Grip Height: 60"
• Distance from Body: 14"

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous flow cytometry experience is extremely desirable. At least 1 year, preferably 3+ years of experience.
• 2+ years pharmaceutical/biotech research experience and familiarity with preclinical drug discovery and/or translational research.
• Technical Computer Software literacy, including GraphPad Prism, and Flow Cytometry based applications (CellQuest, FACSDiva, Forecyt, and FlowJo).

General Information:

• Status: Full-time, exempt position, not subject to FLSA or California overtime regulations.
• Schedule: Monday-Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. Occasional night and/or weekend work may be required.
• Location: This is a 100% on-site and lab-based position located in Alameda, CA, with occasional travel as needed.
• Compensation: Starting range $90K to $105K, based on experience. Full position range $90K to $120K.
• Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401K with employer match (after 90 days introductory period), paid holidays, PTO, EAP, life and long term disability insurance, FSA with employer contribution, and free lunch/snacks.

Note:

This job description outlines the primary duties and requirements of the Scientist I: Discovery Sciences position. Additional responsibilities may be assigned as necessary to support the goals and objectives of the organization.