We are seeking a motivated and skilled Scientist I to support our invivo imaging studies using small animal models. This role is central to our preclinical research team and involves hands-on work with nuclear medicine (PET/SPECT), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The successful candidate will play a key role in project leadership, with the opportunity to oversee staff and lab spaces. They will also provide technical support across a range of in vivo disease models, perform dosing and surgical procedures, and contribute to team leadership by mentoring junior staff.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to evolve into a strategic leadership role within a fast-paced, collaborative research environment. Whether leading a small team or contributing as a senior individual contributor, you'll have the autonomy to drive research excellence and help shape the future of preclinical imaging studies.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Staff Development

• Lead or support day-to-day activities within the invivo team, ensuring alignment with project timelines and goals.
• May oversee and develop junior staff (2-4 members) provide training and technical guidance as needed.
• Contribute to the management and optimization of laboratory space, including equipment and supply maintenance.
• Develop, write and enforce laboratory-specific standard operating procedures (SOP's)
• Evaluate study protocols and collaborate with Discovery Research teams during protocol development.
• Liaise with IACUC and internal stakeholders to ensure compliance with animal use protocols (AUP's)
• Lead onboarding and integration of new team members.

Study Support & Execution

• Participate in protocol development and review with Discovery Research and cross-functional teams.
• Assist in coordinating study scheduling and establish timelines for protocol execution.
• Execute a wide range of study types including:
  • Efficacy, biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, toxicokinetic, and xenograft models.
• Perform dosing and surgical procedures such as:
  • IV, IP, SC, IM, PO administrations
  • Perfusion, tissue resection, microdissection
  • Biological sampling (blood, CSF, organs)
  • Survival surgery and CNS administration (preferred but not required)

• Assist in image acquisition (PET, SPECT, CT, MRI) and related procedures.
• Handle radioactive and BSL2 materials, including sample processing, gamma counting, and proper waste disposal.
• Ensure strict adherence to laboratory SOPs and regulatory guidelines (IACUC, radiation safety, lab safety).
• Ensure accurate data collection, analysis and reporting.
• Maintain complete and clear laboratory records.
• Monitor and report on animal health in collaboration with attending veterinarian.

• Represent in vivo operations in meetings and cross-functional communications.

Functional Competencies (Technical knowledge/Skills)

• Some understanding of biology, pharmacology, or small animal imaging in the context of pharmaceutical research
• Ability to multi-task
• Comfort with various computer operating systems and programs
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Occasional weekend and after-hours work as needed
• Ability to lift 50 pounds

Highly Desired Competencies

• Strong proficiency in IV dosing and minor surgical procedures
• Microdissection of specific tissues (e.g., lymph nodes, brain sections)
• Hands-on experience in a preclinical imaging environment

Experience, Education, and Certifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Animal Science, or related field, with 7+ years of relevant in vivo research experience or higher degree with 5+ years of relevant in vivo research experience.
• Demonstrated experience mentoring laboratory staff.
• Competence with computer systems and laboratory data platforms.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Availability to work occasional weekends as required.

This role is based in the Perceptive office/lab located in Needham, MA. The annual base salary range for this role is $65,305-$121,287. This range represents the anticipated initial annual salary and may vary depending on several factors including the candidate's experience and skills and may be subject to market rate adjustment.