SENS - Research Associate

Job Type: Full-time

Title: Research Associate

Salary: $~55,000.00 /year with benefits (commensurate with experience).

SENS Research Foundation (SRF) is hiring a Research Assistant for our Research Center (RC) located in Mountain View, CA. SRF is an exciting, cutting-edge non-profit dedicated to transforming the way the world researches and treats age-related diseases. More detailed information can be found at our website: www.sens.org

We seek a Research Assistant (RA) to join our small but dynamic immunology team led by Dr. Amit Sharma for a project geared toward investigating the mechanisms involved in the immune surveillance of senescent cells with the aim of finding promising interventions.

There are three main projects currently for the RA. One of the projects involves characterizing age-dependent phenotypes changes in the of Natural Killer cells and its implication on their ability to eliminate senescent cells in cell culture and mice model.  We have identified several unique antigens expressed on the surface of senescent cells. The goal of the second project is to characterize the surface antigens on senescent cells and with the goal of developing CAR-NK cells with therapeutic application. The projects will require validating the CAR-NK cells in cell culture and the mice models of senescence.  Senescent cells are known to secrete a unique mixture of proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines and matrix modifying proteins called SASP (Senescence Associated Secretory Phenotype). We have identified several SASP factors that may block immune surveillance by NK cells. The aim of the third project is to develop therapeutic interventions based on removal of these SASP proteins for enhancing immune surveillance of senescent cells in aging and senescence mice model.  All these projects involves extensive use of cell culture and mice models and involves working with human blood samples, primary human cells, and mice tissue.

The ideal candidate for this full-time position has a Ph.D. in chemical/biological sciences and substantial (or the master’s degree with at least 1-2 years) bench experience, industry experience position is preferred. The candidate must be adaptable, a team player, self-motivated, and interested in problem-solving. Duties will include performing wet-lab experiments, recording and analyzing data, and presenting the results in meetings every 2-3 months.

The ideal candidate must have experience with molecular biology techniques, such as quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence, ELISA, microplate readers, and flow cytometry analysis, as well as prior experience performing data analysis and presenting data. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in primary cell culture and PBMC isolation from human blood.

We offer an excellent benefits package including paid vacation and sick leave, fully covered health insurance (inclusive of dependents), an FSA program, and a company-matched 401(k) plan, all of which is offered after a 90-day introductory period. SENS Research Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. The job offer comes with two years contract with the possibility of an extension. We may sponsor a visa for international applicants.

The position is available now and will be filled as soon as the qualified candidate is found. Salary is commensurate with the job title.

Interested candidates should apply by emailing a cover letter and current CV to Resumes@sens.org.