In Vivo Associate Scientist / Scientist

WHO WE ARE

Immunovec is a pioneering biotechnology company developing cell type-specific immunotherapies for autoimmune diseases, cancer, and genetic disorders. Launched from stealth in October 2025 with $40.7 million in funding from ARPA-H's EMBODY program and additional private seed funding, Immunovec is pushing the boundaries of in vivo cell engineering.

Our proprietary platform combines cell-type-specific DNA constructs with targeted non-viral delivery particles. We aim to deliver safer, more potent, and far more accessible therapies at unprecedented scale, speed, and cost.

When you join Immunovec, you're joining a mission-driven team at the forefront of in vivo cell engineering, based in the Los Angeles area.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for a hands-on, detail-oriented in vivo scientist to join our preclinical research team. You will execute mouse studies supporting our in vivo cell engineering programs covering the full in-life phase from dosing through health monitoring, sample collection, imaging, and ex vivo analysis. Title and compensation will be commensurate with education and experience.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• In vivo study execution: Set up and run mouse studies across BALB/c, C57BL/6, and humanized mouse models. Assist and support large animal studies, e.g. NHP studies. 
• Multi-route dosing: Administer cells and test articles via IV (tail vein), IM, SC, and RO routes.
• Humanized mouse models: Generate and maintain PBMC-engrafted and CD34 HSPC-engrafted NSG models; monitor engraftment and immune reconstitution.
• Animal health monitoring: Perform daily clinical observation scoring, body weight, tumor measurements, and welfare checks per IACUC SOPs.
• Bleeding and sample collection: Conduct retro-orbital, submandibular, and tail vein bleeds; collect tissues and organs at study timepoints.
• Ex vivo analysis: Process blood and tissues for flow cytometry, cytokine profiling, and immune phenotyping.
• Downstream analysis: Perform and analyze complex multi-colored flow cytometry analysis 
• Documentation: Maintain accurate ELN entries, animal records, and IACUC compliance logs; update SOPs as needed.
• Collaboration: Partner with Immunology, Cell Therapy, and Delivery teams; communicate timelines and results clearly.
• Vivarium operations: Support animal supply management, colony records, and vivarium upkeep.
• Training: Mentor junior staff on in vivo techniques and SOPs as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Education: BSc 2–4 years of hands-on in vivo experience. MSc 1–3 years of relevant in vivo experience. PhD with in vivo research experience (doctoral or postdoctoral).
• Dosing routes: Proficient in at least three of: IV, IM, SC, and RO in rodents.
• CAR-T / NK biology: Familiarity with engineered T or NK cell therapy and supporting preclinical models.
• Humanized models: Direct experience with CD34 HSPC-engrafted NSG/NOG mice and engraftment monitoring.
• Health monitoring: Skilled in clinical scoring, body weight tracking, and humane endpoint assessment.
• Bleeding: Competent in at least two bleeding techniques (retro-orbital, submandibular, or tail vein).
• Immunology foundation: Working knowledge of immune cell biology and standard assays (flow cytometry, ELISA).
• Organization: Meticulous record-keeping with strong attention to detail and scientific rigor.
• Communication: Effective communicator; collaborative team player in a fast-paced environment.

DESIRABLE SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Experience with T/NK cell engineering in vivo. 
• Xenograft, CDX, or PDX tumor model experience.
• Must have experience with Flow cytometry panel design and analysis (FlowJo or equivalent).
• Must have experience is In vivo imaging (IVIS/Lago bioluminescence) 
• Knowledge and experience with CD34 HSC-engrafted humanized mouse models. 
• Molecular biology skills: qPCR, ELISA, Western blot, or IHC.
• Biotech startup or CRO background.
• Data analysis proficiency (GraphPad Prism or equivalent).
• Experience with Larger animal handling is a plus.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Compensation range: $85,000-100,000 , commensurate with title level, experience, and qualifications.

Immunovec is proud to provide a comprehensive benefits package, including:

1. Medical, dental, and vision insurance with competitive company contribution.

2. Life, AD&D, and disability insurance.

3. 401(k) retirement plan.

4. Equity participation (stock options) commensurate with level and experience.

5. Opportunity to work on science with real-world impact on patient lives.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Immunovec is an equal opportunity employer committed to a welcoming and diverse environment. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

HOW TO APPLY

Submit your resume and a brief cover letter describing your past work experience to hiring@immunovec.com. Then fill out this brief intake form: https://forms.gle/B4GmcL3LDjZWcXNr5