UNIV - Staff Scientist I - Department of Pharmacology and Immunology
Medical University of South CarolinaAbout the role
Job Description Summary
The ONeil laboratory is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented, and talented individual for a Staff Scientist I position to support ongoing research in cellular immunotherapy and autoimmune disease. The lab focuses on developing next-generation CAR-T cell therapies for autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), with an emphasis on engineering T cell function through transient mRNA modification and novel manufacturing approaches. This position will support funded studies aimed at evaluating CD19-directed CAR-T cell therapies in preclinical models and advancing translational workflows toward IND-enabling studies. The Staff Scientist will contribute to experimental design, execution, troubleshooting, and analysis across both in vivo and ex vivo platforms. The individual will work closely with the Principal Investigator and collaborators to generate high-quality data supporting publications and clinical translation.The role is ideally suited for candidates with expertise in immunology, cell therapy, or related fields, with experience in T cell biology, gene modification, and/or translational research.
Entity
Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC - Univ)Worker Type
EmployeeWorker Sub-Type
Research GrantCost Center
CC001034 COM PHARM Operations CCPay Rate Type
SalaryPay Grade
University-00
Pay Range
Scheduled Weekly Hours
40Work Shift
Job Description
Staff Scientist I position
Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
Department of Pharmacology and Immunology
Laboratory of Dr. Richard ONeil
Job summary
The ONeil laboratory is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented, and talented individual for a Staff Scientist I position to support ongoing research in cellular immunotherapy and autoimmune disease. The lab focuses on developing next-generation CAR-T cell therapies for autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), with an emphasis on engineering T cell function through transient mRNA modification and novel manufacturing approaches. This position will support funded studies aimed at evaluating CD19-directed CAR-T cell therapies in preclinical models and advancing translational workflows toward IND-enabling studies. The Staff Scientist will contribute to experimental design, execution, troubleshooting, and analysis across both in vivo and ex vivo platforms. The individual will work closely with the Principal Investigator and collaborators to generate high-quality data supporting publications and clinical translation.
The role is ideally suited for candidates with expertise in immunology, cell therapy, or related fields, with experience in T cell biology, gene modification, and/or translational research.
Duties/Responsibilities
35% - Cellular immunology and CAR-T workflows: Execute and optimize experiments involving T cell isolation, activation, genetic modification (viral transduction and/or mRNA electroporation), and functional characterization. Responsibilities include assessing CAR expression, proliferation, cytokine production, and cytotoxicity, as well as troubleshooting manufacturing workflows and quality control assays.
30% - Wet lab procedures and analytical assays: Perform and analyze experiments including multi-parameter flow cytometry, ELISA/Luminex cytokine assays, and immunophenotyping of lymphocyte populations. Support development of functional assays to evaluate engineered T cell activity. Maintain laboratory reagents, coordinate sample processing, and ensure proper documentation and reproducibility of experimental workflows 20%
30% - Scientific communication and reporting:Prepare figures, datasets, and draft sections of manuscripts, abstracts, and grant reports. Participate in lab meetings and collaborative discussions. Maintain familiarity with current literature in immunotherapy, CAR-T biology, and autoimmune disease.
5%- Laboratory operations and mentorship: Assist in training students and junior staff on experimental techniques. Maintain organized records, contribute to lab operations, and support a collaborative and compliant research environment.
Minimum Experience and Training Requirements
PhD in immunology, molecular biology, bioengineering, or related biomedical field
At least 2 years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience
Demonstrated ability to design and execute independent research projects
Experience with flow cytometry, immune cell culture, and functional assays
Preferred Qualifications
Experi
Apply for this role
Generate a tailored application kit with a matched cover letter, interview prep, and CV highlights — in under 60 seconds.
Apply Now →Generate Application KitFree account required — sign up in 30s