Research Associate II

About Akoya Biosciences, Inc.

As The Spatial Biology Company, Akoya Biosciences' mission is to bring context to the world of biology and human health through the power of spatial phenotyping. The company offers comprehensive single-cell imaging solutions that allow researchers to phenotype cells with spatial context and visualize how they organize and interact to influence disease progression and response to therapy. Akoya offers a full continuum of spatial phenotyping solutions to serve the diverse needs of researchers across discovery, translational and clinical research: PhenoCode Panels and PhenoCycler, PhenoImager Fusion, and PhenoImager HT Instruments.

Job Description Summary

We are seeking for a highly motivated Research Associate II to join the Akoya Advanced Biopharma Solutions (ABS) group located in Marlborough, MA. The successful candidate will work in a team-oriented environment providing pharma and biotech clients with multiplexing immunofluorescence panel development service in the translational and clinical workspace. The main roles of this lab-based position including planning and performing immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF). Core responsibilities include performing lab tasks relating to antibody validation and optimization of immunohistochemistry (IHC) and/or immunofluorescence (IF) experiments, knowledge of data interpretation and quantitative pathology, and the ability to communicate with clients when needed. They should also be familiar with LIMS systems and have experience working in a regulated laboratory setting such as a CAP/CLIA and GCLP. The candidate should be used to work in a fast-paced environment, multitasking and have good interpersonal skills.

The desired candidate will be a detail-oriented individual who can lead the clinical/translational projects aiming for a better understanding of the microenvironment of patients on route to precision medicine.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform, analyze and troubleshoot immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF) staining and imaging of FFPE tissue sections.

• Testing, optimization, and validation of antibodies for FFPE tissue.

• General laboratory maintenance including maintenance of laboratory equipment, managing inventory and reagent preparation and documentation thereof in accordance with CLIA/CAP sample accessioning and tracking, inventory of biospecimens and slides and documentation in appropriate software systems.

• If needed, communicate regularly with clients and host client meetings discussing project updates focusing on image and data interpretation and presentation.

• Collaborate and communicate with team members and cross function team to accomplish specific tasks and team objectives within project timelines. Provide timely feedback when dates for individual items cannot be met.

• Follow company quality policy and safety practices, including training, lab safety, record keeping and ISO or GLP as appropriate.

• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Skills

• BS in Life Sciences or related fields with minimum 2-4 years related experience or MS in Life Science or related fields and minimum 0-2 years related experience.

• A thorough understanding of experimental design, scientific principles, and the ability to perform troubleshooting and propose solutions.

• Experience with antibody selection, assay development and standardization, preferably applying multiplex immunofluorescence.

• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced team environment, working on multiple projects with evolving priorities and deadlines.

• Written, verbal and presentation skills

• Excellent computer skills including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; experience with electronic notebook systems;

• Highly organized with attention to details and excellent information management, time management, and organization skills

The hiring range for this position is $63,000 - $82,000 per year, which may factor in various geographic regions. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. Our full-time regular positions also include an annual performance-based bonus (or a sales incentive plan) and long-term incentive units (equity) provided as part of our compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

Akoya's excellent benefits program includes a selection of Medical and Dental plans, and Life, AD&D and Short-Term Disability insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, 401(k) with immediate Company match vesting, Company paid holidays and more!

Akoya values bringing together individuals with diverse backgrounds. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.