Research Associate/Senior Research Associate, In Vivo Pharmacology in Cambridge, Massachusetts at Thymmune Therapeutics

About Us

Thymmune Therapeutics is a preclinical biotechnology company based in Cambridge, MA applying proprietary insights in thymic engineering to develop and commercialize immune cell therapy products addressing significant unmet clinical need across immunology. Building on work from leading labs, Thymmune has strong IP positioning and is backed by early investors and founders of successful high-profile biotechnology companies.

We are seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Research Associate to join our rapidly growing team. This role sits at the intersection of in vivo pharmacology and Immunology within the R&D department. You will be responsible for testing the functionality, safety, and efficacy of iPSC-derived thymic epithelial cell therapies in mouse models.

The ideal candidate possesses an industrial mindset underpinned by critical thinking and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. You will embody our "Always Learning" value, collaborating across teams to deepen our collective knowledge. You will not only execute complex studies but also participate in strategic planning, data analysis, and the mentorship of junior staff.
Key Responsibilities

In vivo pharmacology study

• Execute in vivo studies using selected mouse models to assess the efficacy and tumorigenicity risk of thymic cell product following engraftment.
• Perform standard dosing procedures (SC, IM, IV, IP) for cell administration, blood sampling techniques (submandibular bleeds and tail nick) for immune cell profiling, as well as tissue collection (e.g., lymph tissue, muscle, and major organs) via necropsy.
• Conduct and/or assist with small rodent surgical procedures (e.g., tissue transplantation, cells implantation), experience in surgical procedures is a key asset.
• Perform specialized tissue processing and in vivo imaging analysis, including immunohistochemistry (IHC) and IVIS-based reporter gene imaging.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to support timely execution of in vivo studies to characterize and select candidate cell therapy product.

In Vitro biological & Immunological assays

• Perform cell isolation from primary human or mouse tissues to support downstream analysis.
• Conduct downstream biological assays to evaluate cell quality and function, including Flow Cytometry (FACS), RT-qPCR/ ddPCR, MSD/ELISA, Immunofluorescence imaging.
• Identify and validate target markers for cell profiling and apply these markers to correlate in vitro characteristics with in vivo outcomes.
• Maintain cell culture of cell line or primary immune cells using aseptic techniques.
• Develop and execute immunological assays (e.g., cell activation, cytotoxicity, mixed lymphocyte reaction) to assess the allo-reactivity and tolerance of immune cells.

Data Analysis, Reporting, & Collaboration

• Document in vitro and in vivo studies using electronic notebook (e.g., Benchling) to maintain detailed records of study design, experimental procedure, analytical data, and results.
• Analyse complex datasets using statistical software (e.g., GraphPad Prism) and effectively present findings to the scientific team.
• Maintain high standards of data integrity and ensure accurate, reproducible, and well-documented data to support reliable analysis and decision-making.
• Contribute to the writing of study reports and participate in the strategic planning of long-term studies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, provide training to junior laboratory staff and interns, fostering a collaborative and productive working environment.

Our Values

At Thymmune, our culture is the foundation of our success. We are looking for a candidate who embodies our core principles:

• Human Connection: We respect and care for each other, our patients, and our communities. We believe teamwork empowers our joint success.
• Pioneering Spirit: We are trailblazers. We fearlessly push boundaries to overcome the limitations of existing therapies, fuelled by passion and cutting-edge science.
• Always Learning: We believe collaboration drives innovation. Curiosity deepens our knowledge, and we benefit from our collective ideas and perspectives.
• Delivering on Our Promise: We are accountable to each other and the people we serve. We make a difference by delivering on our vision and elevating one another.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Education: B.S. or M.S. in Cell Biology, Immunology, Regenerative Medicine, or a related discipline.
• Experience: 1–3+ years of relevant experience (Biotech/Pharma experience preferred).
• In Vivo Skills: Proficiency in rodent handling, multiple routes of administration (IV, IP, SC), and tissue dissection is required.
• In Vitro Skills: Hands-on experience with the isolation and culture of primary human cells or tissues is preferred.
• Analytical Skills: Strong experience with Flow Cytometry, qPCR, and microscopy. Ability to analyse data statistically and troubleshoot experimental variances independently.
• Other Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills. Must be able to structure tasks, set priorities, and work effectively in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.