Research Associate II/Senior Research Associate, IHC Biomarker Development

SystImmune is a leading and well-funded clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company located in Bothell, 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 II or Senior Research Associate 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.

This is full-time onsite at our Bothell, WA facility.

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

• BS or MS in Biology, Molecular Biology, Pathology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field.
  • Research Associate II requires bachelor’s degree and 2+ years of industry experience.
  • Senior Research Associate requires bachelor’s degree with 5+ years or master’s degree with 3+ years of industry experience.
• 2–3 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 tissue-based biomarker assay development.

 
Compensation and Benefits:
The expected base salary range for this position is $70,000 - $90,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to a candidate’s level qualifications, experience, and skills.
While most offers typically fall within the low to mid-point of the range, we may extend an offer toward the higher end for exceptional candidates whose background and expertise exceeds the requirements of the role.
 
SystImmune is a leading and well-funded biotech company with a bright future. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success. SystImmune offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 100% paid employee premiums for medical/dental/vision, also STD, LTD, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match of up to 3% and a vesting schedule of only 5 years, 15 PTO days per year, sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays and MORE.
 
We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success.
 
SystImmune is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome diverse talent and encourage all qualified applicants to apply