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Senior Scientist – Neuro Oncology (Multiplex IF / Spatial Biology)
Kelly® Science & Clinical
Location: Gaithersburg, MD (Onsite)
Pay Rate: $70–75/hour
Assignment Type: Contract (3 months, maternity leave coverage with potential extension)
Start Date: ASAP
Kelly Science & Clinical is seeking a Senior Scientist to support client's team in Gaithersburg, MD. This is a high-impact opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge neuro-oncology research, specifically advancing multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) panel development and biomarker validation.
This role offers strong visibility and the chance to work alongside a Boston-based neuro-oncology team, with potential for longer-term extension based on performance and project needs.
Position Overview
As a Senior Scientist within the Target Validation group, you will play a key role in supporting early-stage oncology drug development by developing and optimizing multiplex IF assays and validating biomarkers in brain tumor samples. This is not a routine lab role—this position focuses on scientific ownership, problem-solving, and assay development within a specialized indication.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and optimize multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) assays for neuro-oncology applications
- Validate and evaluate up to 13 biomarkers across brain tumor tissue samples
- Perform immunofluorescence (IF) on FFPE tissues, including staining, optimization, and QC
- Conduct image analysis using platforms such as Halo, QuPath, or ImageJ
- Support tissue processing, slide preparation, and histological workflows
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including a Boston-based neuro-oncology group
- Present findings, provide updates, and contribute to scientific discussions
- Troubleshoot assay challenges and drive data quality improvements
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline
- 8 years of research experience in oncology, immunology, or related field
- Hands-on experience with immunofluorescence (IF) in FFPE tissues
- Strong proficiency with image analysis tools (e.g., Halo, Visiopharm, QuPath, ImageJ)
- Experience developing, optimizing, and validating IHC/IF assays
- Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in neuro-oncology or neural tissue biology
- Background in multiplex IF platforms (e.g., Akoya/Phenoptics, CODEX, GeoMx, CosMx)
- Experience with slide preparation and histology workflows
- Familiarity with biomarker development and spatial biology
- Industry experience in biotech or pharma
Why This Role?
- Work on a high-priority neuro-oncology initiative with real impact on drug development
- Gain hands-on experience with advanced multiplex and spatial biology technologies
- Collaborate with leading scientists in a top-tier global biopharma company
- Opportunity for contract extension based on project needs and performance
- Competitive compensation for a short-term, high-impact engagement
Apply today to join Kelly Science & Clinical and contribute to our client's mission to transform cancer treatment through innovative science.
Salary : $70 - $75