Scientist Histology and Bioanalytics

As Scientist Histology and Bioanalytics, you will be responsible of overseeing, coordinating and performing histology, image analysis and bioanalytics for the preclinical efficacy and biodistribution studies. This includes outsourced activities (all histology work, occasional bioanalytics work) as well as performing activities in-house (image analysis, bioanalytics with special focus on ddPCR).

The activities are performed within the Translational Research team under direct supervision of the Associate Director Preclinical Development, and include planning, CRO monitoring, in-house execution, data analysis, and reporting of the obtained results based on internal guidelines.

Main responsibilities include:

• Selection and monitoring of CROs (with focus on histology and bioanalytics), from study plan, execution, to data review and study report

• Planning and design of histology workflows with selected CROs, including tissue processing, method development, sample analysis and microscopy, combining standard histology with multiplex (fluorescent) immunohistochemistry and RNAscope

• In-house image analysis of microscopy images obtained at the histology CROs, using AI-based image analysis software

• Develop analytical strategy, AI-training and image analysis workflow fit for each specific research question, building QC checks on obtained results

• Occasional microscopy and imaging at academic partners (light, epifluorescence or confocal)

• Planning, design and execution of bioanalytic assays to determine expression and efficacy of our therapeutic vectors. Special focus on (RT) ddPCR, including cell and tissue processing, RNA and DNA isolation, primer design and data analysis

• Support of relevant laboratory tasks related to own function (as per internal laboratory agreements with Research team)

• Timely documentation of all activities based on in-house regulations (electronic lab journal, project management tools, study plans, study reports)

• Regular updates and presentation of obtained results to relevant stakeholders (internal meetings, occasionally external meetings).

Embedded in the Translational Research team, you will:

• build collaborative interactions with other internal teams, especially Research and Preclinical teams, as well as IT and QA

• interact with histology, imaging and bioanalytics CROs and vendors, both for outsourcing and monitoring of activities as well as for being up to date on technological advancements

• interact occasionally with academic partners related to collaborations on histology and microscopy.

• PhD in life sciences (biotech, pharmacology, pathology, biomedical sciences or similar), Neuroscience is preferred, with focus on peripheral or central nervous system indications

• Experience in immunology and/or oncology is a plus

• Demonstrated experience in histology, microscopy and image analysis, as well as tissue bioanalytics (DNA and RNA workflows)

• Nice to have: experience with HALO software or Visiopharm AI-based image analysis platforms, experience with ddPCR, experience with protein bioanalytics (ELISA, western blot, MSD, LC-MS, or related methods), data analysis and visualization using R or related tools

• English (spoken and written) is required

• Collaborative

• Good communication skills

• Strong organizational skills

• Detail oriented

• Capable of troubleshooting

• Flexible, able to work under fast-paced environment