Scientist - II

Spectraforce Technologies
United States, Massachusetts, Cambridge
Aug 11, 2025
Position Title: Scientist - II (Associate) Work Location: Cambridge, MA 02141 Assignment Duration: 12 months Position Summary: The Neuroimmunology team is seeking a motivated and technically-skilled individual with strong CNS cell biology skills to join our Cambridge-based team. Candidates will be able to work to collaborate with colleagues across diverse functional areas including genetics, chemical biology, immunology and pharmacology. Key Responsibilities: Culturing of stable cell lines, primary and iPS-derived microglia to support the study of disease associated functions and phenotypes that will support identification and validation of novel therapeutic targets to treat neurodegenerative diseases. Assist in developing and performing disease-relevant cell-based functional assays and perform high content imaging, biochemical and molecular profiling techniques. Communicate data clearly and concisely to the appropriate teams and stakeholders and thrive in a team environment. Qualification & Experience: BS/BA degree in Biology, Neuroscience, Molecular Biology Bioengineering, Biotechnology or equivalent degree with at least 2+ year of industry or academia experience Strong general knowledge of cell culture methods and sterile technique Experience working immortalized cells lines, primary rodent neurons and glia (e.g. microglia), human iPS-derived CNS cell models including microglia and neurons Understanding of standard cell transfection techniques using lipid-based and electroporation methodology Cell staining methods including Immunofluorescence and cell masks or cell structural staining methods Some experience with method optimization, troubleshooting and strong critical thinking skills Proven experience in image acquisition and strong microscopy skills and strong working knowledge of mouse neuroanatomy Ability to work independently on data analysis including a practical knowledge of statistics Preferred Skills: Experience with plate based high content imaging microscopy Live cell imaging Demonstrated experience with quantitative image analysis Working understanding of biochemical and molecular biology techniques including protein and RNA extraction, quantitation and detection methods such as western-blot, ELISA and qPCR Experience with cellular signaling and functional studies including phagocytosis and/or cell motility measures Strong oral, written and presentation skills with ability to explain concepts clearly in lab and small team settings