Principal Research Associate, in vivo

Do you want to be part of an inclusive team that works to develop innovative therapies for patients? Every day, we are driven to develop and deliver innovative and effective new medicines to patients and physicians. If you want to be part of this exciting work, you belong at Astellas!

Astellas Pharma Inc. is a pharmaceutical company conducting business in more than 70 countries around the world. We are committed to turning innovative science into medical solutions that bring value and hope to patients and their families. Keeping our focus on addressing unmet medical needs and conducting our business with ethics and integrity enables us to improve the health of people throughout the world. For more information on Astellas, please visit our website at www.astellas.com.

Universal Cells , an affiliate of Astellas located in Seattle, WA, is focused on the development and commercialization of stem cell and regenerative medicine therapies. We conduct clinical-grade gene editing of stem cells to produce cells that avoid rejection and can be used in allogeneic cell therapy treatments to treat all patients that need them.

OUR GOAL - ONE CELL FOR EVERYONE

NO IMMUNE SUPPRESSION. NO DONOR MATCHING. NO REJECTION.

We are a dynamic team of research and scientific professionals who are passionate about turning science and innovation into medical solutions. Through our diversity, scientific knowledge, professional rigor and focus on innovation, we are merging our technology with the Astellas drug development expertise to unlock cures to many therapies. Join our team of committed, enthusiastic professionals devoted to making the most effective, life-saving cell therapy products in the world.

Universal Cells (UCI) is announcing a Principal Research Associate, in vivo opportunity at their facility in Seattle, WA .

Purpose:

The primary purpose of the Principal Research Associate is for the oversight of technical and operational aspects of the Universal Cells in vivo program, specifically related to those conducted at external CRO laboratories. Hands-on experimental work and management of CRO activities related to proposals, project timelines, and oversight are key operational responsibilities. This position will work primarily in a laboratory setting with Scientists and R&D teams.

Essential Job Responsibilities:

• Plays a critical role in overseeing the Universal Cells in vivo program and is the internal expert for conducting critical in vivo studies

• Direct oversight of vivarium through CRO laboratory and management of all aspects of in vivo mouse studies for research in coordination with Universal Cells management team

• Assures compliance with protocols; coordinates interactions with IACUC for protocols, amendments, audits, and reporting

• Collaborates with R&D Scientists across multiple groups in study design, outcome measures, data & statistical evaluation for in vivo translational studies

• Develops and optimizes in vivo models; performing and troubleshooting in vivo studies

• Conducts and interprets preclinical efficacy studies

• Identifies new research directions (including new targets, methodologies, etc.)

• Designs, develops and executes research projects, independently or in collaboration with research teams

• Coordinates experiments with other R&D Scientists and RAs; collects, analyzes, interprets, and reports data, and stays current on relevant primary literature

• Performs other duties as assigned or special projects as needed

Quantitative Dimensions:

• Direct impact on Universal Cells in vivo program management.

Organizational Context:

• Reports to Department Leader

• Collaborates regularly with the Scientists and other R&D teams

• Interacts with external CROs

Qualifications:

Required:

• BS with 8+ years; MS with 4+ years laboratory experience in the field of Animal Science, Cell Biology, Immunology, Oncology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering

• Experience working in research operations, preferably in pharma or biotech

• Demonstrated proficiency with in vivo models of oncology, immunology and autoimmunity, including expertise in all routes of administration (IM, ID, SC, IV, etc.), organ and tissue harvesting, and blood collection techniques

• Ability to review, comprehend, and comply with all standard operation procedures (SOPs) and quality assurance standards pertaining to laboratory animals

• Diligence, and meticulous attention to detail in experimentation and record keeping

• Strong organizational, time management, and problem solving skills and the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously

• Ability to work independently with supervision and ability to effectively collaborate with other teams

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and genuine care for animal welfare

• American Association for Laboratory Animal Science certification a plus

Preferred:

• Strong scientific training and laboratory skills in immunology, immuno-oncology, and oncology

• Hands-on experience with ex vivo tissue processing, including immune cell isolation and characterization by flow cytometry, multiplex immunohistochemistry, and other ex vivo assays

• Experience with in vivo imaging techniques

• Experience in cell culture and cell line maintenance

• Experience managing, mentoring, and training others

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance

• Generous Paid Time Off options, including Vacation and Sick time, plus national holidays including year-end shut down

• 401(k) match and annual company contribution

• Company paid life insurance

• Annual Corporate Bonus and Quarterly Sales Incentive for eligible positions

• Long Term Incentive Plan for eligible positions

• Referral bonus program

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Category Research and Development

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