Vhr_unither is hiring a Research Associate I – HLA/SLA (Xeno/RMO) to support xenotransplantation research and regulatory milestones. You will assist in developing, validating, and performing immunogenetics testing to characterize swine and human leukocyte antigen compatibility, producing high-quality data to guide key decisions.
What You'll Do
- Perform routine and complex immunogenetics testing using methods like PCR-based typing, Next-Generation Sequencing, and Luminex/Intelliflex assays.
- Assist in the development, validation, and optimization of assays for histocompatibility testing.
- Isolate, culture, and prepare PBMCs, endothelial cells, and other relevant cell populations.
- Troubleshoot technical issues, maintain assay performance, and document deviations or corrective actions.
- Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment for regulated testing and audits.
- Contribute to scientific manuscripts, abstracts, and conference presentations.
- Stay current with literature, technologies, and regulatory guidelines in HLA/SLA testing and xenotransplantation.
- Document all laboratory activities in compliance with GLP, CLIA, CAP, EFI, and/or FDA requirements.
- Assist in writing, reviewing, and updating SOPs, validation protocols, and quality records.
- Participate in internal audits, CAP inspections, and regulatory reviews.
- Assist in training junior staff and collaborators in laboratory techniques and assay workflows.
- Collaborate with clinicians and R&D scientists to design experiments and refine donor-recipient matching strategies.
What We're Looking For
- Bachelor’s Degree in a related field.
- 1+ years of histocompatibility experience.
- Proficiency in laboratory techniques like pipetting, cell handling, molecular assays, and flow cytometry.
- Capacity to manage multiple projects with competing timelines in a fast-paced research and clinical environment.
- Effective problem-solving skills to troubleshoot assay failures and identify root causes.
- Competence with electronic laboratory notebooks, LIMS systems, and basic bioinformatics workflows.
Nice to Have
- ABHI certification as a Histocompatibility Technologist (CHT) or Supervisor (CHS).
- Strong understanding of immunogenetics, including HLA and SLA systems, antigen presentation, and transplant immunology.
- Familiarity with xenotransplantation models, swine genetics, immunobiology, and donor-recipient matching.
- Working knowledge of cell culture techniques, including PBMC and endothelial cell isolation.
- Knowledge of crossmatch methodologies and interpretation of cytotoxicity/antibody binding data.
- Excellent technical documentation skills for SOP writing, assay reports, and regulatory submissions.
Benefits & Compensation
- Eligible employees may participate in a comprehensive benefits suite including medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage.
- Employee wellness resources, savings plans (401k and ESPP), and paid time off.
- Paid parental leave benefits and disability benefits.
Work Mode
This role is onsite in Morrisville, NC.
United Therapeutics Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
