Translational Sciences Research Associate (6-month contract role)

Company: PharmaEssentia U.
Location: Bedford
Posted on: April 5, 2026

Job Description:

Translational Sciences Research Associate (6-month contract role) Position Summary We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate on a 6-month contract basis to join the Translational Sciences Department at PIRC . The candidate will be part of a collaborative and fast-paced team driving translational research focused on identifying novel biomarkers and exploring the mechanism-of-action of candidate immuno-oncology and hematology drug candidates. The role offers the opportunity to work with samples from pharmacodynamic/pharmacokinetic and disease efficacy mouse models and primary cells and tissues from healthy volunteers and cancer patients. These in vitro and in vivo translational pharmacology activities will contribute to late discovery data packages and enable key program milestones. A strong candidate will have a background in cancer biology , immuno-oncology , immunology, cell biology and/or molecular biology , with prior hands-on experience in RNA isolation and measurement, cDNA synthesis, quantitative PCR, cell-based assays, tissue culture, and/or ELISA, Luminex or MSD protein detection methods. The ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams, follow complex protocols, and deliver high-quality experimental data is essential. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in oncology/hematology late discovery/translational methods while supporting impactful, real-world research. This is a 6 month contract with potential to transition to a full-time permanent role based on performance and project success. Upon conversion, the employee will be eligible for our full benefits package Main Responsibilities Isolation and quantitation of nucleic acids or proteins from primary murine or human cell or tissue samples. Ensure proper samples storage and maintain sample inventory for TS department. cDNA synthesis, quantitative PCR, and building RNAsequencing libraries. Perform in vitro and ex vivo experiments focused on tumor-immune interactions using primary human cell/tissue models. Culture murine and human cell lines for cell-based assays or syngeneic tumor models. Maintain cell line inventory for TS department. Process primary mouse or human tumor/tissue samples for immediate downstream applications and/or cryo-preserve and properly store for future use. Maintain sample inventory for TS department. Detect proteins of interest in samples from human or mouse cell lines or tissues, plasma or supernatants using Western blotting, ELISA, Luminex or MSD. Analyze and interpret experimental data and present findings to the team. Maintain detailed, timely, and compliant documentation using an electronic lab notebook (ELN). Follow lab safety and quality standards. Basic Qualifications Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Cancer Biology , Immuno-oncology , Immunology , Cell Biology , Biomedical Sciences , or a related life science field with 2-3 years of industrial experience. Available to work full-time, on-site for 6 months without needed work authorization/sponsorship from the company. Preferred Qualifications Previous relevant laboratory experience is highly preferred. Skilled in aseptic technique and culture of mouse and human cell lines, primary cells and tissues. Experience with tumor tissue handling , 3-D culture systems , or ex vivo tumor models. Familiarity with immunoassays , qPCR, RNAsequencing, flow cytometry and/or related technologies. Experience using an electronic lab notebook for experimental documentation. Excellent communication, time management, and organizational abilities. Collaborative, flexible, and motivated to work in a fast-paced translational research environment. EEO Statement: At PharmaEssentia Innovation Research Center (PIRC), we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), national origin, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information (including characteristics and testing), military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law. PIRC believes that diversity and inclusion among our team are critical to our success as a global company, and we seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool. PIRC does not accept unsolicited agency resumes. Staffing agencies should not send resumes to our HR team or to any PIRC employees. PIRC is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies. At PharmaEssentia, our goal is to treat as many people with cancer as possible. That means challenging the status quo with better science that leads to better lives. By joining our team, you will not only expand your own possibilities, but you will contribute to expanding options for people with cancer. https://us.pharmaessentia.com/careers/

Keywords: PharmaEssentia U., Salem , Translational Sciences Research Associate (6-month contract role), Science, Research & Development , Bedford, Massachusetts