Discovery and Translational Sciences Co-Op

Position Summary:

Pioneering Medicines is seeking an enthusiastic and collaborative Co-Op student to join the Discovery and Translational Sciences team. This role provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in immunology research across a range of projects, including later-stage translational assay development and early target and platform validation efforts. The co-op will work with primary human and mouse cell materials to generate and test hypotheses, develop and optimize cell-based assays, and apply genome engineering approaches. The individual will work cross-functionally with internal and external teams to advance projects toward key scientific milestones.

What You’ll Gain:

• Hands-on experience in early- and late-stage translational immunology research within a drug discovery environment


• Mentorship from experienced scientists and exposure to cross-functional teams


• Practical experience with primary cell–based immunological assays, genome engineering, and data analysis


• Opportunities to present findings and contribute to meaningful scientific decisions

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and optimize primary cell–based immunological assays using human and mouse PBMCs and whole blood to support translational assay development


• Support genome engineering efforts for target validation and proof-of-concept functional studies in a variety of human primary cells (e.g., T cells, B cells, and epithelial cells)


• Conduct immune cell assays to evaluate and characterize phenotypes of polarized and engineered T cells


• Design experiments, analyze data, and communicate results to cross-functional groups across the organization


• Draft and update protocols, develop assay SOPs, and maintain entries in the electronic laboratory notebook

Basic Qualifications:

• B.S. or M.S. candidate in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Bioengineering, or a related field


• Hands-on experience with basic laboratory procedures and mammalian cell culture (e.g., pipetting, aseptic technique, cell handling); primary cell experience is a plus


• Strong foundational knowledge of cell and molecular biology; immunology experience is a plus


• Curiosity-driven with a strong desire to learn and ask questions


• Collaborative team player with effective written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in a molecular or cell biology laboratory setting


• Experience with cell and molecular biology assays (e.g., flow cytometry, ELISA, Western blotting, and/or DNA/RNA extraction)


• Familiarity with genome engineering approaches such as CRISPR/Cas9

The salary range for this role is $25 - $35. Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience. Pioneering Medicines currently offers healthcare coverage, annual incentive program, retirement benefits and a broad range of other benefits. Compensation and benefits information is based on Pioneering Medicines's good faith estimate as of the date of publication and may be modified in the future.