Research Associate I/II – Clinical Pathology/IHC Biomarker Development

SystImmune is a leading and well-funded clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company located in Redmond, WA and Princeton, NJ. It specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments using its established drug development platforms, focusing on bi-specific, multi-specific antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). SystImmune has multiple assets in various stages of clinical trials for solid tumor and hematologic indications. Alongside ongoing clinical trials. SystImmune has a robust preclinical pipeline of potential cancer therapeutics in the discover and IND-enabling stages, representing cutting-edge biologics development. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company's success. We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented **Research Associate I/II** to support the development, optimization, and validation of immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays. This role will contribute to early-stage biomarker in support of clinical trial programs. The ideal candidate will have **2–3 years of hands-on industry experience** in histology, IHC, or a regulated laboratory environment (e.g., CLIA/CAP, GLP). This is a **bench-focused position** requiring close collaboration with scientists, pathologists, and cross-functional project teams. **Key Responsibilities** **Histology** - Perform tissue sectioning of FFPE blocks. - Route and support H&E staining workflows. **IHC Assay Execution** - Perform routine IHC staining on FFPE tissue specimens using automated platforms (e.g., Ventana, Leica). - Conduct antibody titrations, protocol optimization, slide preparation, and quality control checks. - Assist in generating feasibility, optimization, and analytical validation data for emerging CDx assays. - Experience with **Akoya PhenoImager** HT platforms is preferred. **Sample & Workflow Support** - Manage tissue samples and associated documentation. - Prepare tissue sections, including slide cutting, baking, antigen retrieval, and reagent preparation. - Maintain sample integrity, traceability, and documentation in compliance with quality system requirements. - Support tissue handling workflows (blocks, slides, labeling, storage) within GLP or CLIA/CAP environments. **Data Collection & Documentation** - Accurately record experimental data in ELN and/or LIMS systems. - Capture high-quality slide images and perform basic image analysis. - Assist with slide scoring preparation and data summaries. - Summarize experimental findings for internal meetings and assay development reviews. **Instrument & Laboratory Maintenance** - Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot automated IHC staining platforms and related laboratory equipment. - Perform routine instrument maintenance and maintain equipment logs per laboratory quality systems. - Monitor and manage inventory of reagents, antibodies, controls, and consumables. **Cross-functional Support** - Collaborate with scientists, pathologists, QA, and clinical development teams on assay transfer, optimization, and validation activities. - Support preparation of study materials, controlled documents, and protocol execution for validation studies. **Qualifications** **Required** - BS or MS in Biology, Molecular Biology, Pathology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field. - **1–3 years of hands-on experience** in histology and/or IHC assay execution within a research or regulated diagnostic laboratory. - Experience handling FFPE tissues and operating automated IHC staining platforms. - Strong attention to detail with excellent documentation and record-keeping practices. - Ability to follow SOPs and work effectively in CLIA-, GxP-, or ISO-regulated environments. **Preferred** - Experience supporting IHC assay optimization and/or analytical validation studies. - Exposure to **Akoya platforms** and **multiplex immunofluorescence** projects. - Experience with digital pathology, slide scanning, or image analysis tools. - Knowledge of antibody characterization and…