The Department of Neurosurgery is searching for an Assistant Scientist to join our translational cancer immunotherapy research team. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing projects focused on CAR T cell therapy and antibody-based strategies for glioblastoma and other cancers. This position offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of laboratory research and clinical application, including support of active and planned clinical trial analyses. This is a non-tenure position.The Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Florida, College of Medicine is committed to providing comprehensive clinical services for the diagnosis, management, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients suffering from diseases of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system, including brain tumors, aneurysms, stroke, epilepsy, functional disorders, and spinal disorders and injuries. Our clinical care mission also extends throughout North Central Florida through regional neurosurgery programs. We offer the full spectrum of neurosurgical and neuro-oncology treatment options for both adults and pediatric patients. Our research labs and investigator-led initiatives and clinical trials are developing promising new treatments for neurological diseases that are extremely difficult to treat with conventional therapies. The Department of Neurosurgery offers education and training programs such as ACGME-accredited neurosurgery residency programs and fellowship programs.
Classification Title:
Assistant Scientist
Job Description:
Conducting Research
Design and execute pre-clinical experiments related to CAR T cell engineering and antibody development.
Perform a variety of cell-based functional assays, including cytotoxicity, proliferation, cytokine profiling, and flow cytometry.
Analyze tumor specimens using techniques such as, immunohistochemistry, RNA sequencing, and high-dimensional immune profiling.
Assist in preparing scientific manuscripts, figures, grant proposals, and regulatory documents.
Collaborate closely with faculty, postdoctoral researchers, technicians, and clinical trial teams.
Contribute to the training and mentoring of undergraduate students and junior staff.
Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records.
Ensure compliance with all institutional and regulatory research guidelines.
Supervising and Teaching/Mentoring
Student Mentorship: Mentor and teach undergraduate students in UF scientific programs, fostering their development and encouraging their involvement in research activities.
Supervision of Scholars: Supervise visiting scholars and technologists engaged in relevant research, ensuring a productive and collaborative environment.
Lab Environment Management: Contribute to maintaining a positive lab environment, promoting a spirit of collaboration and mutual support among team members.
Expected Salary:
$70,000.00
Minimum Requirements:
MD, PhD, or MD/PhD
Preferred Qualifications:
MD, PhD, or MD/PhD in Immunology, Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
Strong scientific background in tumor immunology or cell therapy. Proficiency in flow cytometry, human T cell culture, and standard molecular biology techniques.
Evidence of research productivity through peer-reviewed publications or presentations.
Prior experience in CAR T cell research, monoclonal antibody studies, or immune checkpoint targeting.
Familiarity with translational or correlative research linked to clinical trials.
Experience working with clinical samples and navigating regulatory processes (e.g., IBC, IRB).
Strong analytical and organizational skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
For consideration, please complete an application and include a cover letter, resume and the names and email addresses of three to five references.
This requisition has been reposted. Previous applicants are still under consideration and need not apply.
Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.