Design and execute strategies to enhance TIL function including through media and metabolic interventions (nutrients, cytokines); drugs targeting key pathways; gene engineering approaches (CRISPR, viral/non-viral editing, synthetic circuits). Drive process innovation and disruption, challenging current TIL manufacturing paradigms to improve potency, persistence, scalability, and cost. Integrate deep mechanistic discovery (e.g., T cell biology, tumor microenvironment, translatome/epitope discovery) with translational objectives. Develop and optimize robust, scalable workflows for TIL expansion, activation, and modification suitable for clinical translation. Lead preclinical development, including: In vitro functional assays and high-dimensional profiling, in vivo biodistribution and persistence, efficacy and toxicity analyses, biomarker strategy development. Translate discoveries into disciplined product development, defining target product profiles and critical quality attributes (CQAs); establish data-driven decision frameworks to prioritize candidates and advance programs through stage gates. Contribute to and coordinate IND documentation, including authorship of relevant sections (CMC, pharmacology/toxicology summaries, investigator brochure inputs). Collaborate cross-functionally with process development, CMC, regulatory, clinical, and close external partners. Mentor team members and foster a high-performance, innovative, and translationally focused culture. Education- Ph.D. in immunology, cancer biology, bioengineering, or related field, with postdoctoral training and relevant experience in T cell therapy an appropriate field.
Experience - More than 10 years of hands-on expertise in TIL biology and methods, T cell immunology, genetic T cell engineering, CRISPR screening, molecular biology, mouse models, and clinical translation.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities- Proven ability to lead projects/teams and translate discovery into preclinical development, with familiarity in process development and scalability for cell therapies.
- Working knowledge of IND-enabling studies (pharmacology, tox) and regulatory documentation, with strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Familiarity with institutional and federal regulatory documentation and compliance standards.
- Effectively manages biospecimen handling and sample integrity practices.
- Knowledge of data management systems and electronic data integrity principles.
Licenses and Certifications Working Conditions/Physical DemandsAbility to work flexible hours, evenings and weekends, when requested for special projects.
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To apply, visit https://apptrkr.com/7197222"">https://jobs.weill.cornell.edu/NY/job/New-York-Lead-in-TIL-Reprogramming-NY-10021/1390070200/ jeid-360b69ad0149254c8bb58a44f49f3183
