Research Associate II, Enhanced Lung
About The Position
We are the first publicly-traded biotech or pharmaceutical company to take the form of a public benefit corporation. Our public benefit purpose is to provide a brighter future for patients through the development of novel pharmaceutical therapies; and technologies that expand the availability of transplantable organs. United Therapeutics (Nasdaq: UTHR) seeks to travel down the corridors of indifference to develop treatments for rare, deadly diseases. We were founded in 1996 by a family seeking a cure for their daughter’s pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Today, we have six FDA-approved therapies that treat PAH, pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD) and neuroblastoma, a rare pediatric cancer. Our near-term pipeline seeks to develop additional therapies for PAH and pulmonary fibrosis (PF). The cure for end-stage life-threatening diseases like PAH, PH-ILD, PF, and many others is an organ transplant, but only a small percentage of donated organs are available to address the vast need. For this reason, we are working to create manufactured organs to address the shortage of kidneys, hearts, lungs, and livers available for transplant. We believe an unlimited supply of tolerable, transplantable organs will eliminate the transplant waiting list and cure end-stage organ diseases for which transplant is not currently an option. The Enhanced Lung Program focuses on developing novel technologies to enhance donor lung performance and improve transplant outcomes. Our scientists work at the intersection of organ perfusion, gene therapy, and bioengineering to modify and optimize lungs outside the body prior to transplantation. This is where strong fundamentals turn into real impact. As a Research Associate II on our Enhanced Lung team, you’ll be hands‑on supporting gene modification studies that push engineered lungs closer to clinical reality. You’ll work directly with lung tissue, EVLP systems, and core molecular assays—contributing data that matters and learning how translational science actually happens. This role is ideal for someone who’s eager to grow, takes pride in doing things the right way, and wants their daily lab work to connect to something bigger. If you’re motivated by purpose, curious by nature, and excited to build your career at the bench on meaningful science, you’ll feel right at home here. The Research Associate II will provide hands-on laboratory support for gene modification studies in lung tissue and EVLP systems. This individual will help execute EVLP, molecular assays, support vector preparation and characterization, and assist with preclinical studies.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in molecular biology, cell biology, biomedical engineering, or related field
- 2+ years of related pharma/biotech industry experience
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Tissue handling and dissection
- Highly self-motivated
- Aseptic technique
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Nice To Haves
- Master’s Degree in molecular biology, cell biology, biomedical engineering, or related field
- Experience with viral vectors, cell culture, or gene editing tools (CRISPR, siRNA, mRNA)
- Strong organizational and documentation skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team
- The ability to work independently
- Ability to work a flexible work week; inclusive of evenings and/or weekends
Responsibilities
- Assist with lung tissue processing and ex vivo perfusion experiments
- Perform routine molecular and cell biology assays
- Support analytical assay development and validation
- Contribute to data analysis and presentation
- Perform ELISA assays and other cell-based assays
- Make technical or scientific observations in-process, with some oversight or consultation with manager or other scientists
- Record all laboratory data in the in-house data management system(s)
- Prepare human and non-human organs, tissues, and cells for experimentation
- Follow prescribed laboratory methods and protocols
- All other duties as required
Benefits
- Eligible employees may participate in the Company’s comprehensive benefits suite of programs, including medical / dental / vision / prescription coverage, employee wellness resources, savings plans (401k and ESPP), paid time off & paid parental leave benefits, disability benefits, and more.
- For additional information on Company benefits, please visit https://www.unither.com/careers/benefits-and-amenities
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
