Research Associate/Associate Scientist, Molecular Analytics (Analytical & Product Sciences)

The role:

The Research Associate/Associate Scientist will support the development, qualification, tech transfer, and routine execution of analytical methods for Dispatch’s portfolio of product candidates, including therapeutic viruses, viral vectors, and autologous CAR T cells. Reporting into the Scientist III, Analytical & Product Sciences (APS), this individual will be focused on building foundational, and progressively expansive competency in experimental design and analytical development, with an emphasis on molecular and genomic techniques (e.g., PCR, qPCR, ddPCR, electrophoresis, NGS-based assays) used to characterize viruses and cells. The incumbent will contribute to method development activities, execute routine sample testing to generate reliable and well-documented data, and provide consistent analytical support to cross-functional collaborators. Working under the guidance of senior level scientists, this individual is expected to progress from executing standard experiments toward greater independence in experimental design, data interpretation, and troubleshooting.

Key responsibilities:

• Contribute to the development, optimization, and qualification of new analytical methods under the guidance of senior level scientists.
• Build and demonstrate competency in experimental design, including selection of appropriate controls and study design, with increasing independence.
• Perform routine sample testing and execute established analytical methods (e.g., qPCR, ddPCR, NGS-based assays) to support release, stability, and characterization testing of CAR T cells and therapeutic viruses.
• Provide reliable and timely analytical support to cross-functional collaborators, including process development, candidate development, and platform research teams.
• Accurately and promptly record data in the electronic lab notebook (ELN) and maintain organized, audit-ready documentation.
• Assist with troubleshooting of routine technical and instrument issues, and support method transfer activities, both internally and with external partners (e.g., CDMOs), as directed.
• Communicate experimental results clearly to supervisors and team members through data summaries, presentations, and team meetings.
• Maintain lab equipment, supplies, and inventory, and comply with all safety and quality requirements.
• Actively participate in seminars, journal clubs, and team meetings, and pursue ongoing scientific and professional development.

Required experience & skills: 

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree ideally in Molecular/Cell Biology, Immunology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field with at least 6 months of hands-on experience in the laboratory in an academic or industry setting
• Foundational knowledge of molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, qPCR, ddPCR, nucleic acid extraction and purification, electrophoresis, NGS)
• Ability to execute standard experiments accurately and reproducibly, following established protocols and SOPs
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate, timely documentation of experimental data
• Willingness to learn new techniques and receive instruction and guidance from senior team members
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based laboratory environment

Preferred experience & skills: 

• Familiarity with GMP/GLP laboratory practices or a regulated laboratory environment
• Prior exposure to cell and gene or viral therapy drug development
• Experience using an electronic lab notebook (ELN) system
• Familiarity with data analysis software such as GraphPad Prism, JMP, and Microsoft Excel
• Familiarity with foundational concepts of CMC development and establishing, executing, and iterating analytical development is highly preferred
• Desire to learn, gain and grow new skills, and apply new and existing knowledge adaptability, in a fast-paced and dynamic environment is highly preferred