T-Cell Research Scientist (San Diego)
Job Title: T-Cell Research Scientist Location: San Diego, CA 92111 Employment Type: W2 Contract – 8 Months with Possibility for Extensions Pay Rate: $40.00–$47.59/hour – Determined based on experience (Paid Weekly)Work Model: Onsite – Laboratory-Based Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance Note: This is a W2 only role — C2C and C2H will not be considered. Role Overview BEPC is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented T-Cell Research Scientist to support our customer's Discovery Biology team in San Diego, CA. This position will play a critical role in a high-priority therapeutic binder screening campaign, supporting the discovery and functional validation of novel candidates for T-cell-based therapies. The successful candidate will perform hands-on laboratory experiments focused on primary human T-cell engineering, high-throughput binder screening, flow cytometry, and functional T-cell assays. This role is ideal for a scientist who thrives in a fast-paced drug discovery environment and enjoys translating early-stage binder discoveries into meaningful functional data. The primary objective is to characterize the potency, specificity, and safety of candidate binders, including scFvs and VHHs, in engineered T-cell systems. The ideal candidate brings a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant biological science and at least 2 years of hands-on wet lab experience, with strong expertise in flow cytometry and primary T-cell biology. Key Responsibilities Execute bench-level experiments supporting therapeutic binder discovery, screening, and functional validation. Perform non-viral engineering of primary human T cells using mRNA or transposon-based DNA delivery systems. Utilize advanced electroporation and nucleofection platforms to introduce genetic material into T cells. Monitor cell viability, recovery, and synthetic receptor expression following transfection. Maintain, culture, and expand primary human T cells and Jurkat cell lines using aseptic laboratory techniques. Support primary T-cell isolation from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Execute high-throughput screening assays to evaluate binder affinity, specificity, and functionality. Perform multi-color flow cytometry (FACS) to assess receptor expression, cell-surface markers, and T-cell phenotypes. Analyze and interpret flow cytometry data using FlowJo or comparable software. Conduct functional assays to evaluate T-cell activation, cytotoxicity, cytokine production, and proliferation. Perform cytotoxicity assays using IncuCyte live-cell imaging or LDH release methods. Measure cytokine responses using ELISA, MSD, or Luminex platforms. Evaluate T-cell proliferation using tracking dyes such as CFSE. Analyze experimental results to support candidate selection and advancement through the screening process. Maintain accurate experimental records, raw data, and protocol deviations in an Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN). Ensure experimental documentation supports data integrity and applicable regulatory requirements. Collaborate with cross-functional discovery teams to troubleshoot experiments and optimize screening workflows. Present clear, data-driven experimental updates during weekly campaign sprint meetings. Required Qualifications Bachelor's or Master's degree in Immunology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or a related biological science. Minimum 2 years of hands-on wet lab experience, preferably within a biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry environment. Strong experience with primary human T-cell culture, handling, and expansion. Hands-on experience isolating primary T cells from PBMCs. Demonstrated mastery of aseptic laboratory techniques. Strong expertise in flow cytometry acquisition and analysis is required. Experience performing multi-color flow cytometry and interpreting experimental results. Proficiency with FlowJo or comparable flow cytometry analysis software. Ability to execute laboratory experiments accurately and consistently while following established protocols. Strong attention to detail and commitment to experimental data quality. Experience documenting laboratory activities, results, and deviations accurately. Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills. Ability to work independently at the bench while collaborating with multidisciplinary research teams. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Ability to communicate experimental findings and provide data-driven updates in a fast-paced research environment. Preferred Qualifications Previous experience in biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, or therapeutic drug discovery. Hands-on experience with non-viral T-cell engineering, including electroporation or nucleofection. Experience delivering mRNA or transposon-based DNA systems into primary T cells. Familiarity with engineered T-cell receptors and therapeutic binder screening, including scFvs and VHHs. Experience performing functional T-cell assays, including cytotoxicity, cytokine profiling, and proliferation assays. Familiarity with IncuCyte, LDH release assays, ELISA, MSD, Luminex, or CFSE-based proliferation assays. Experience using automated liquid-handling robotics for high-throughput screening. Experience supporting high-throughput drug discovery campaigns. Familiarity with Electronic Lab Notebook systems and research documentation practices. Laboratory & Work Environment This is a hands-on laboratory position supporting an active Discovery Biology research program. Candidates should be comfortable with: Performing detailed wet lab experiments involving primary human cells and established cell lines. Working with biological samples, laboratory reagents, and specialized scientific instrumentation. Maintaining strict aseptic techniques and following established laboratory safety procedures. Managing multiple experiments and priorities within a fast-paced screening campaign. Producing accurate, reproducible experimental data while meeting project timelines. Collaborating with scientific colleagues to evaluate results and troubleshoot experimental challenges. About BEPC BEPC Inc., founded in 2007, is a 100% employee-owned company providing top-tier consulting and staffing solutions across industries like technology, engineering, manufacturing, and project management. At BEPC, we are driven by innovation and a commitment to excellence. We take pride in fostering a collaborative and innovative environment where our team members thrive. With competitive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, BEPC is dedicated to supporting our employees' personal and professional growth. Apply Now!
