Scientific Research Lead, Head-RNA Therapeutics Lab

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Memorial 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 use
• Lead/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 nanoparticles
• Lead/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 vaccines
• Transfer these assays, when appropriate, to the GMP-Therapeutics Core Facility, and collaboratively support vaccine manufacturing.
• Provide oversight and leadership to the technical staff
• Set 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 Vaccines
• Operational responsibilities encompass oversight of advanced methods development, scientific consultation, and liaising with the scientific community to grow a sustainable state-of-the-art operation
• Responsible 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 purification
• Expertise in mRNA-LNP platforms, cGMP process flow, and analytical panel development; experience with IND applications highly desired
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills
• Experience managing laboratory staff and overseeing day-to-day laboratory operations essential

Core Skills:

• A highly experienced and skilled scientist, with sharp focus, attention to detail, and good decision-making skills
• A quick learner and strong problem-solver who sees “the forest and the trees” and can quickly identify anomalies in data and uncover their source
• Adept at multitasking, planning, prioritizing, and re-prioritizing work to meet goals and commitments with minimal supervision in a dynamic environment
• A 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 manager
• An 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 seminars
• A creative thinker and strategic planner who can think outside the box
• Consistently achieving results, even under tough circumstances

Additional Information:

• Location: 417 E 68^th St, NYC #LI-Onsite
• Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9 am - 5 pm 
• Reporting to: Director, Center of Cancer Vaccines

Salary Range: $109,000- $174,000

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