Research Associate II (Tuesday through Saturday shift)

About Akoya Biosciences:
As The Spatial Biology Company®, Akoya Biosciences’ mission is to bring context to the world of biology and human health through the power of spatial phenotyping. The company offers comprehensive single-cell imaging solutions that allow researchers to phenotype cells with spatial context and visualize how they organize and interact to influence disease progression and treatment response. Akoya offers the PhenoCycler® and PhenoImager® platforms to serve the diverse needs of researchers across discovery, translational and clinical research.

Please note:

The position is a full-time, on-site role working in the Akoya Advanced Biopharma Solutions (ABS) laboratory located at Marlborough, MA and the work schedule is Tuesday through Saturday.

Position Summary/Impact:

We are seeking for a highly motivated Research Associate II to join the Akoya Advanced Biopharma Solutions (ABS) group located in Marlborough, MA. The successful candidate will work in a team-oriented environment providing clients with multiplexing immunofluorescence staining. The candidate will have worked in a clinical or preclinical pathology laboratory with experience in high-throughput histology with focus on immunohistochemistry. The candidate will work with lab personnel on reagent preparation, troubleshooting and running qualification studies. Knowledge of antibody validation methods, immunofluorescence (IF) and quantitative pathology approaches are a plus but not required.

The successful candidate must have experience in basic image analysis and be part of a team that provides imaging for clients. They should also be familiar with LIMS systems and have experience working in a regulated laboratory setting such as a CAP/CLIA and GCLP.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF) staining
• Testing, optimization, and validation of antibodies for FFPE tissue.
• General laboratory maintenance including maintenance of laboratory equipment, managing inventory and reagent preparation and documentation thereof in accordance with CLIA/CAP
• Ensures that all equipment, instruments, and accessories are operational.
• Maintains patient confidentiality according to HIPAA rules.
• Sample accessioning and tracking, inventory of biospecimens and slides and documentation in appropriate software systems.
• Performs acceptance testing of reagents and materials, both internal and external.
• Collaborate with team members and other project staff to accomplish specific tasks and team objectives within project timelines. Provide timely feedback when dates for individual items cannot be met.
• Provides imaging and image analysis for specific clients with oversight of image analysts.
• Part of a team to help design workflow for imaging projects.
• Follow company quality policy and safety practices, including training, lab safety, record keeping and ISO or GLP as appropriate.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Skills:

• AS or BS Degree in Life Sciences
• HT/ HTL ASCP preferred but not required.
• One (1) to five (5) years of related experience as a histologist specializing in IHC.
• Proficient with a variety of histological techniques including IHC, image scanning and automated IHC staining.
• Knowledge in analytical methods and an understanding of Chemistry is preferred.
• Experience with quality control/quality assurance procedures, compliance with regulatory requirements preferred but not required.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a fast-paced team environment, working on multiple projects with evolving priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills.
• Excellent computer skills including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
  • Experience with tracking systems and pathology imaging software is a plus
  • Experience with electronic notebook systems
  • Familiarity with specialized and hardware-based systems in the laboratory such as barcode readers and zebra with the knowledge to install and integrate them into the laboratory workflow.
• Highly organized with attention to detail and excellent information management, time management, and organization skills

The hiring range for this position is $63,000 to $81,000 per year, which may factor in various geographic regions. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. Our full-time regular positions also include an annual performance-based bonus (or a sales incentive plan) and long-term incentive units (equity) provided as part of our compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

Akoya’s excellent benefits program includes a selection of Medical and Dental plans, and Life, AD&D and Short-Term Disability insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, 401(k) with immediate Company match vesting, Company paid holidays and more!

Akoya values bringing together individuals with diverse backgrounds. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.