Research Associate II, Cell and Gene Therapy

Company Overview

Mucommune, LLC is a biotechnology company advancing nearly ten years of innovative research in mucosal immunotherapeutics. With a distinctive R&D model, the company develops platform technologies and propels them into clinical-stage assets through spin-offs like Inhalon Biopharma, which has successfully raised close to $60 million. Extending its reach, Mucommune is focusing on developing in vivo engineered immune cell therapies, funded partially by an ARPA-H grant of up to $29.4 million alongside other government grants. Their goal is to transform immunoengineering into therapeutic platforms that provide impactful medical solutions while lowering costs and improving accessibility. Joining Mucommune means working with a skilled interdisciplinary team dedicated to next-generation in vivo engineered CAR-T therapies.

Position Summary

The Lab Research Associate II is instrumental in supporting Mucommune's research progress on in vivo CAR-T cell therapy initiatives. This individual will lead laboratory experiments, data generation and analysis, and participate in the development and characterization of lentiviral vector gene therapy products. Key tasks involve designing and assessing lentiviral vector constructs, conducting analytical assays to evaluate product characteristics, assisting with preclinical data preparation and interpretation, and streamlining laboratory workflows to enhance CAR-T therapy development.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments for the creation and evaluation of lentiviral vectors leveraged in T-cell reprogramming
• Perform and document studies involving mammalian and immune cell cultures, cancer cell growth, genetic manipulation, and biochemical/cell-based assays
• Contribute to both upstream and downstream viral vector manufacturing process development, collaborating internally and with external partners
• Execute analytical tests to characterize physical, genomic, and functional properties of viral vectors and engineered cells
• Support research efforts involving contract research organizations, academic collaborators, and external partners in vector production, purification, and preclinical studies
• Analyze collected data, summarize findings, and present results to aid project decisions and scientific documentation
• Help prepare and maintain standard operating procedures, experimental protocols, and lab records
• Assist with daily lab operations including reagent preparation, inventory control, equipment upkeep, and strict compliance with Environmental Health and Safety standards

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, biotechnology, or related fields
• Between two and three years of laboratory experience in academic, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or translational research settings

Technical Expertise

• Proficient in mammalian cell culture and sterile technique
• Experience with molecular biology/biochemical methods like PCR, ELISA, Western blotting, and gel electrophoresis
• Flow cytometry experience is advantageous but not required
• Skillful in performing and troubleshooting cell-based assays
• Familiarity with genetic engineering and viral vector-based processes is preferred
• Exposure to lentiviral vector production, characterization, or purification is a plus
• Competent in data analysis, experimental record keeping, and detailed laboratory documentation

Other Requirements

• Detail-oriented with the capability to follow protocols and contribute to method enhancements
• Ability to manage multiple experiments and prioritize effectively in a dynamic research environment
• Strong teamwork skills with the capacity to work independently and collaboratively
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
• Proactive, flexible, and dedicated to upholding high scientific and professional standards
• Curious and enthusiastic about continuous learning, developing novel scientific methods, and broadening technical capabilities to meet emerging challenges