Research Associate, In Vivo Discovery

About the Role

Kite Pharma is seeking a motivated Research Associate to join the In Vivo Discovery team. This role is focused on developing targeted vectors to reprogram cells in vivo for cancer treatment. As an entry-level scientific professional, you will perform hands-on laboratory experiments under close supervision, executing routine procedures and simple to moderately complex assays following established protocols and good laboratory practices.

This position emphasizes building core laboratory skills, scientific understanding, adaptability, and collaboration within a team-oriented research environment. You may support small animal model studies to evaluate experimental constructs and connect mechanistic findings to in vivo outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and perform assigned laboratory experiments of simple to moderate complexity under close supervision, following established protocols and procedures to obtain reliable results.
• Support hands-on in vivo mouse studies including routine animal handling, dosing/injections (e.g., intravenous tail vein and intraperitoneal), IVIS imaging support, blood collection, tissue harvest/dissection, and sample processing in accordance with approved protocols and SOPs.
• Execute routine experimental tasks accurately and consistently after proper training, adhering to good laboratory practices and all safety guidelines.
• Identify and troubleshoot basic technical issues during experiments, implementing minor adjustments independently and seeking guidance from experienced scientists for more complex problems.
• Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data to recognize trends or outcomes, contributing to data interpretation with input from experienced team members.
• Maintain detailed and organized laboratory records (electronic laboratory notebooks, data logs) to document procedures, observations, and results clearly and thoroughly.
• Assist in preparing technical summaries or presentations to communicate findings to the team and supervisors.
• Work collaboratively with research team members and communicate progress regularly to supervisors and project leads, ensuring alignment with project goals and incorporating feedback into ongoing work.
• Adhere to all laboratory safety protocols and quality standards, helping to maintain a clean, safe, and compliant lab environment.
• Demonstrate adaptability by learning new experimental techniques or operating new instrumentation with guidance and continuously improve skills through feedback and practice.
• Contribute to a positive, team-oriented lab culture by being reliable and proactive, offering assistance to colleagues and helping to train new team members on basic laboratory procedures when needed.
• Maintain mammalian cell lines and primary human cells using sterile technique in a biosafety cabinet.
• Occasional weekend work might be required.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• High School Degree and 3 years of relevant experience OR
• Associate's Degree and 2 years of relevant experience OR
• Bachelor's Degree in biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related life science field
• 0–2 years of hands-on laboratory research experience in an academic or industry setting (includes internships or co-op experience)
• Experience with mammalian cell culture and primary cells is suggested.
• Prior experience with lentiviral vector production and flow cytometry is preferred.
• Prior experience mouse handling and interventions including intravenous (tail vein) and intraperitoneal injections are preferred.
• Experience in a collaborative research environment (academic lab, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical setting) is a plus.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to high quality data generation.
• Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, Prism, and other programs to create and distribute reports and key information.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work onsite in a laboratory environment.

Qualifications

• Solid foundation in biological sciences and basic laboratory techniques, with the ability to perform routine experimental procedures and follow protocols with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Familiarity with basic data analysis methods; able to process experimental data and use common software tools (e.g., spreadsheets, graphing programs) to summarize and visualize results.
• Excellent documentation and record-keeping skills to maintain clear and thorough electronic lab notebooks and records of experiments, observations, and outcomes.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal) to effectively report experimental results and observations to team members and supervisors.
• Knowledge of and commitment to laboratory safety procedures and good laboratory practices, ensuring quality and compliance in all experimental activities.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and meet project deadlines.
• Collaborative working style and a positive team-oriented attitude, with a willingness to work closely with colleagues, share knowledge, and contribute to team goals.
• Eagerness to learn and adapt quickly to new techniques or equipment, with an openness to feedback and a commitment to continuous improvement.