Senior Scientist – Neuro Oncology (Multiplex IF / Spatial Biology)

Kelly® Science & Clinical

Location: Gaithersburg, MD (Onsite)

Pay Rate: $70–75/hour

Assignment Type: Contract (August-October, maternity leave coverage with potential extension)

Start Date: ASAP

Kelly Science & Clinical is seeking a Senior Scientist to support our client’s Discovery Oncology team in Gaithersburg, MD. This is a high-impact opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge neuro-oncology research, specifically advancing multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) panel development and biomarker validation.

This role offers strong visibility and the chance to work alongside a Boston-based neuro-oncology team, with potential for longer-term extension based on performance and project needs.

Position Overview

As a Senior Scientist within the Target Validation group, you will play a key role in supporting early-stage oncology drug development by developing and optimizing multiplex IF assays and validating biomarkers in brain tumor samples. This is not a routine lab role—this position focuses on scientific ownership, problem-solving, and assay development within a specialized indication.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) assays for neuro-oncology applications

• Validate and evaluate up to 13 biomarkers across brain tumor tissue samples

• Perform immunofluorescence (IF) on FFPE tissues, including staining, optimization, and QC

• Conduct image analysis using platforms such as Halo, QuPath, or ImageJ

• Support tissue processing, slide preparation, and histological workflows

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including a Boston-based neuro-oncology group

• Present findings, provide updates, and contribute to scientific discussions

• Troubleshoot assay challenges and drive data quality improvements

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline

• 8+ years of research experience in oncology, immunology, or related field

• Hands-on experience with immunofluorescence (IF) in FFPE tissues

• Strong proficiency with image analysis tools (e.g., Halo, Visiopharm, QuPath, ImageJ)

• Experience developing, optimizing, and validating IHC/IF assays

• Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in neuro-oncology or neural tissue biology

• Background in multiplex IF platforms (e.g., Akoya/Phenoptics, CODEX, GeoMx, CosMx)

• Experience with slide preparation and histology workflows

• Familiarity with biomarker development and spatial biology

• Industry experience in biotech or pharma

Why This Role?

• Work on a high-priority neuro-oncology initiative with real impact on drug development

• Gain hands-on experience with advanced multiplex and spatial biology technologies

• Collaborate with leading scientists in a top-tier global biopharma company

• Opportunity for contract extension based on project needs and performance

• Competitive compensation for a short-term, high-impact engagement

Apply today to join Kelly Science & Clinical and contribute to our client’s mission to transform cancer treatment through innovative science.

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