Sr Research Scientist

• Temple University's Lewis Katz School of Medicine is searching for a Senior Research Scientist!

Salary Grade: T27

• Salary Range: $80,000 - $90,000

A variety of important factors are reviewed by HR when considering salary, including job duties, the applicant’s education and experience, all relevant internal equity considerations, department budget, and funding source.

Become a part of the Temple family and you will have access to the following:

Full medical, dental, vision coverage

Paid Time Off

9 Federally Observed Paid Holidays

3 Personal Days

Tuition remission - eligible employees and their dependents can obtain a degree TUITION FREE

A generous retirement plan and so much more!

Position Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative Senior Research Scientist with expertise in antibody engineering and RNA-based therapeutics to join our academic research team. The ideal candidate will work closely with the Principal Investigator to shape the laboratory’s scientific strategy while independently leading projects that integrate antibody discovery with mRNA–LNP delivery technologies. This role combines high-level project leadership with hands-on science, mentorship, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Job Details:

* This is a grant funded position

Required Education And Experience:

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or related field
• At least 5 years of postdoctoral/industry experience in antibody discovery and engineering.

Required Skills And Abilities:

• Strong expertise in phage/yeast display, rational antibody design, and advanced characterization methods.
• Hands-on experience with RNA therapeutics, particularly mRNA–LNP platforms and targeted delivery applications.
• Demonstrated productivity through publications in high-impact journals and a clear record of scientific innovation.
• Ability to manage multiple research projects and mentor junior scientists in a laboratory environment.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with an interest in academic–industry translational partnerships.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience bridging antibody engineering with RNA/LNP delivery (e.g., antibody-targeted nanoparticles, bispecific constructs carrying RNA payloads).
• Familiarity with preclinical models for immunotherapy or targeted RNA delivery.
• Previous experience leading projects with CRO and translational research initiatives.
• Strong background in synthetic biology or cell-based therapy platforms.
• Familiarity with nanoparticle characterization, biodistribution, and in vivo functional assays.

Essential Duties:

• Design and execute antibody engineering projects including binder discovery, affinity maturation, Fc engineering, and evaluation in cellular and preclinical models.
• Explore synergistic applications of antibody-based biologics with mRNA–LNP delivery, including targeted delivery of RNA cargoes and antibody-guided nanoparticle strategies.
• Establish screening assays to evaluate antibody function, specificity, and therapeutic potential in vitro and in preclinical models.
• Collaborate with the PI to define scientific priorities, align research goals with grant-funded programs, and identify new research directions.
• Mentor graduate students, postdocs, and technical staff, ensuring technical excellence and professional development.
• Manage collaborations with internal and external partners, including biotech and pharma groups, to accelerate translational impact.
• Contribute to grant writing, manuscript preparation, and conference presentations to enhance the visibility of the lab’s research.
• Oversee project budgets, experimental design, and data interpretation to ensure timely progress toward milestones.

Temple University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all in every aspect of its operations, including employment, service, and educational programs. The University has pledged not to discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, marital status, national origin or ethnic origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or veteran status.

Compliance Statement: In the performance of their functions as detailed in the position description employees have an obligation to avoid ethical, legal, financial and other conflicts of interest to ensure that their actions and outside activities do not conflict with their primary employment responsibilities at the institution. Employees are also expected to understand and be in compliance with applicable laws, University and employment policies and regulations, including NCAA regulations for areas and departments which their essential functions cause them to interact.

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