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Job DescriptionMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) is seeking an accomplished, motivated, and innovative individual to head its RNA Therapeutics Laboratory. The Head of the RNA Therapeutics Laboratory will lead a laboratory team envisioned as the nexus for R&D activities in the newly established Center for Cancer Vaccines at MSK, a key pillar in MSK’s immuno-oncology transformation.
Role Overview:
Oversee creation of an independent, end-to-end mRNA vaccine pipeline at MSK, encompassing vaccine platform optimization and GMP manufacturing for clinical useLead/oversee RNA vaccine design and process development (e.g., modifications to optimize the mRNA template, structure, stability, production through techniques, such as in vitro transcription, purification, and encapsulation in lipid nanoparticlesLead/oversee RNA vaccine quality control, which paired with research and technology development, will develop and optimize analytical assays to evaluate the quality and efficacy of mRNA vaccinesTransfer these assays, when appropriate, to the GMP-Therapeutics Core Facility, and collaboratively support vaccine manufacturing.Provide oversight and leadership to the technical staffSet the short-, medium- and long-term scientific directions of the laboratory by evaluating emerging technologies together with the needs of MSK scientists, physicians, and the overall scientific direction of the Center for Cancer VaccinesOperational responsibilities encompass oversight of advanced methods development, scientific consultation, and liaising with the scientific community to grow a sustainable state-of-the-art operationResponsible for the financial and human resource management (e.g., hiring, training, mentoring, and staff career development)Working hand in hand with the MSK GMP-Therapeutics Core Facility, the candidate is expected to align the lab’s mission with the institutional strategic goals and will report to the Cancer Vaccine Center director and a faculty oversight committee.Key Qualifications:
A Ph.D. in immunology, cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or a related discipline.5+ years of experience in the academic or commercial sector.Hands-on experience working in experimental mRNA vaccine biology, and clinical development of GMP-grade mRNA vaccines; experiences with new assay development is highly desired.Expertise in mRNA customization, synthesis, and purificationExpertise in mRNA-LNP platforms, cGMP process flow, and analytical panel development; experience with IND applications highly desiredExcellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skillsExperience managing laboratory staff and overseeing day-to-day laboratory operations essentialCore Skills:
A highly experienced and skilled scientist, with sharp focus, attention to detail, and good decision-making skillsA quick learner and strong problem-solver who sees “the forest and the trees” and can quickly identify anomalies in data and uncover their sourceAdept at multitasking, planning, prioritizing, and re-prioritizing work to meet goals and commitments with minimal supervision in a dynamic environmentA highly motivated person capable of building strong relationships within the lab and with internal and external collaborators Someone with a strong background of mentorship who is interested in the success of others and willing to evaluate performance and provide constructive feedback as a managerAn outstanding communicator and clear presenter, capable of determining how best to reach different audiences and executing such communications, whether it be internal lab meetings or institutional seminarsA creative thinker and strategic planner who can think outside the boxConsistently achieving results, even under tough circumstances
Additional Information:
Location: 417 E 68th St, NYC #LI-OnsiteSchedule: Monday - Friday, 9 am - 5 pm Reporting to: Director, Center of Cancer Vaccines
Salary Range: $109,000- $174,000
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ClosingMSK is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of recruiting and employment. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran status or any other factor which cannot lawfully be used as a basis for an employment decision.
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