Scientist - II (Associate)

CONTRACTOR POSITION (ONE YEAR) –RETINAL AND VASCULAR BIOLOGY
JOB DESCRIPTION
*** Research Laboratories (MRL) in Cambridge, MA, is a collaborative research hub focused on discovering innovative medicines that improve human health. The Retinal and Vascular Biology group is seeking a motivated bench scientist with strong experimental research experience.
This one-year contractor position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of therapeutics for retinal diseases while working closely with multidisciplinary teams across MRL Cambridge, MRL South San Francisco, and the broader *** research network.
The successful candidate will be an experienced and motivated bench scientist with extensive industry experience in in vitro biochemical and cell-based assay development and execution.
EDUCATION MINIMUM REQUIREMENT:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biological Sciences
A minimum of 5 years of industry experience in in vitro biochemical and cell-based assay development and execution, including compound handling and screening workflows.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Strong hands-on laboratory experience in cell culture and cellular biology techniques.
Industry experience in the development and execution of in vitro assays to support compound screening, validation, optimization, data analysis, and interpretation.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Strong ability to analyze data and communicate scientific findings effectively.
High level of motivation, curiosity, and passion for scientific research.
PREFERRED SKILLS
Familiarity with retinal biology, vascular biology, and inflammation.
Experience with primary endothelial or retinal epithelial cell culture.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
Perform highly complex in vitro assays to evaluate endothelial biology, including barrier function, transport, angiogenesis, differentiation, and specialization.
Culture and maintain primary and immortalized cells used in in vitro assays.
Routinely test compounds represent diverse mechanisms of action and characterize their pharmacological activity.
Analyze, interpret, and present experimental data to project teams.
Optimize and develop in vitro vascular integrity assays.
Participate in team meetings and scientific discussions related to retinal disease and therapeutic target discovery.
Maintain accurate and detailed records in electronic laboratory notebooks and adhere to safe laboratory practices.