Project Scientist

Employment Type:Full-Time, On-Site in Long Beach, CA 90806

Appointment Terms:This is a full-time, 2-year appointment. Continuation of position is contingent upon satisfactory performance and continued funding availability.

The Translational Pulmonary and Immunology Research Center (TPIRC) is dedicated to advancing innovative research at the intersection of plant science, human health, and translational medicine. Our research focuses on understanding plant-derived bioactive compounds and proteins and their impact on food allergy, immune responses, and allied disorders, with the goal of developing novel diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic strategies.

We are seeking a highly motivatedProject Scientistto join our translational research program. The successful candidate will contribute to the development and execution of innovative research projects bridging basic science and clinical applications. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment focused on advancing scientific discoveries toward therapeutic and diagnostic solutions.

The Project Scientist will lead and support experimental studies, develop and optimize research methodologies, analyze complex datasets, and contribute to scientific publications, grant applications, and collaborative research initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Design, plan, and execute translational research studies to support program objectives.

Develop, optimize, and validate experimental protocols.

Conduct immunology-, cell biology-, and organoid-based experiments.

Perform flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, and related analyses.

Analyze and interpret experimental data using appropriate statistical methods.

Prepare reports, presentations, manuscripts, and grant-related documents.

Collaborate with investigators, clinicians, and research staff across multidisciplinary teams.

Maintain accurate and detailed experimental records.

Assist in mentoring research staff, trainees, and students.

Ensure compliance with institutional policies, laboratory safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

Contribute to research strategy, troubleshooting, and continuous laboratory improvement efforts.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in Life Sciences, Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, or a related discipline.

Strong background in experimental design, execution, and data analysis.

Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple research projects simultaneously.

Strong scientific writing and presentation skills.

Record of peer-reviewed publications and scientific productivity.

Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in one or more of the following areas:

Organoid culture and 3D tissue models

Immunology and immune cell biology

Translational and preclinical research

Fluorescence microscopy and image analysis

Flow cytometry and cell sorting (FACS)

Biomarker discovery and validation

Therapeutic target identification and characterization

Drug screening and functional assay development

Technical Expertise

Candidates should have experience with several of the following techniques:

Mammalian cell culture and sterile laboratory practices

Organoid establishment, maintenance, and characterization

Flow cytometry panel design, acquisition, and data analysis

Immune cell isolation, phenotyping, and functional assays

Fluorescence and confocal microscopy

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF)

ELISA, multiplex cytokine assays, and protein quantification

PCR, qPCR, RT-qPCR, and gene expression analysis

Western blotting and protein characterization

DNA/RNA extraction and molecular biology techniques

Statistical analysis and data visualization tools

Experience with electronic laboratory notebooks and data management systems

Employee Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive salary, 401(k) with employer match, medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous paid time off, company-paid holidays, and sponsored employee events. We are also committed to your professional development with individualized training and career growth opportunities.

Physical Requirements

Physical Requirements:The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is required to walk between multiple office locations that include the use of stairs (elevator is only available in some instances). This position requires the ability to occasionally lift office products and supplies, up to 20 pounds.

Direct Reports:N/A

The company provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. The company is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified applicants, and employees with disabilities to ensure they enjoy equal access to all employment opportunities and benefits of employment as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.