Scientist (Cell & Tissue Operations)

Parallel Bio is hiring a Scientist I to run the hands-on cell and tissue culture work that every Parallel Bio program depends on. The role processes human tissue, builds and maintains cell banks, runs immunological assays, and turns bench work into robust, documented processes. It is shared between Technical Operations and Science, splitting time between executing partner studies and strengthening SOPs, cell inventory, and process consistency.

Responsibilities

Process human lymphoid tissue and primary cells into single-cell suspensions and organoid cultures; Apply donor acceptance criteria and track donor metadata to manage donor-to-donor variability; Optimize and troubleshoot scientific protocols as needed in a data-driven manner; Execute partner study protocols on schedule under aseptic technique; Cryopreserve, thaw, and recover primary human cells with consistent viability and yield; Execute cell banking runs with full chain of custody from donor to vial; Maintain the LN2 inventory: storage, sample tracking, and reconciliation; Independently execute flow cytometry for immunophenotyping and study endpoint measurements; Independently execute functional assays (e.g., ELISA, MSD, ELISpot, cytotoxicity), plus imaging or qPCR as programs require; Analyze data (FlowJo, Prism, or equivalent) and contribute to study summaries for partners; Clearly communicate data and findings to stakeholders; Draft and revise SOPs, and help train new team members on them; Support the move from research-grade documentation toward GLP-like rigor; Maintain core equipment and reagent inventory, and support EH&S programs

Requirements

PhD in immunology, cell biology, bioengineering, or a related field with 0–2 years of postdoctoral or industry experience, or an MS with 5+ years of relevant industry experience, or a BS with 8+ years of relevant industry experience; Hands-on proficiency in primary human cell or tissue culture under strict aseptic technique; Hands-on proficiency in cryopreservation: freezing, thawing, and tracking cell stocks; Hands-on proficiency in flow cytometry, plus at least one other immune assay method (e.g., ELISA, MSD, ELISpot, Luminex); Strong documentation habits grounded in data integrity (ALCOA+) principles: detailed electronic notebook entries, clear protocols, and records someone else can follow; Collaboration across two teams and shifting between study execution and process work; High standards for data quality and data integrity, and ability to apply scientific rigor to day-to-day operations; Strong written and verbal skills, critical thinking and rational experimental design capabilities, and clear data presentation skills; Ability to wear a tight-fitting respirator when tasks require it, including medical clearance and an annual fit test; Work with human-derived tissue and cells at BSL-2, including bloodborne pathogen training; Ability to stand at the bench or biosafety cabinet for extended periods, and lift up to 25 lb

Nice to have

Secondary lymphoid organ biology, organoid, or 3D culture experience; Formal cell banking (MCB/WCB) with release testing such as sterility, mycoplasma, and identity; Spectral or high-parameter flow cytometry (15+ colors); iPSC culture or stem cell-derived immune models; Plate-based, higher-throughput workflows or liquid handling automation; SOP authoring in a GLP- or GMP-aware environment

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k); Paid time off; Equity; Room to grow toward Scientist II and process leadership