Co-Op, Research Analytics

The Co-Op will lead a mentored research project focused on the development, optimization, and miniaturization of a multiplex Luminex assay for preclinical antibody-binding assessment. The project will provide hands-on experience across the assay development lifecycle, progressing from antigen-bead conjugation and single plex assay development through multiplex optimization, assay characterization, and miniaturization from 96-well to 384-well format. The Co-Op will ultimately compare the newly developed 384-well Luminex assay with an established 384-well indirect ELISA to evaluate analytical performance, biological agreement, and sample conservation.

Here's What You'll Do

• Support the development and optimization of a multiplex Luminex immunoassay for preclinical antibody-binding assessment.
• Gain hands-on experience with antigen-bead conjugation, single plex and multiplex assay development, and assay characterization.
• Help miniaturize a 96-well Luminex assay into a 384-well format and evaluate assay performance following scale-down.
• Design and execute laboratory experiments, analyze results, troubleshoot assay performance, and use findings to guide subsequent experiments.
• Compare the newly developed Luminex assay with an established 384-well indirect ELISA to evaluate analytical performance and biological agreement.
• Assess the potential sample-sparing and operational benefits of multiplexing for sample-limited preclinical studies.
• Maintain clear experimental documentation and communicate results through team discussions, data reviews, and a final project presentation.
• Work closely with a scientific mentor while developing increasing independence in experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific decision-making.

Here's What You'll Need (Minimum Qualifications)

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in a STEM field (e.g., Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, or related discipline).
• Foundational laboratory skills applicable to bioprocessing or analytical testing.
• Candidates must already hold work authorization in US and be able to maintain that status without the need for future sponsorship.

Here's What You'll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)

• GPA of 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent academic achievement.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skill.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality and compliance.
• Prior wet-lab experience through coursework, academic research, internships, or previous industry experience preferred.
• Interest in learning new assay technologies and developing hands-on experience with multiplex immunoassays.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with an interest in understanding why an experiment produced a particular result, not simply executing a predefined protocol.
• Detail-oriented and comfortable maintaining accurate experimental records and working with multi-step laboratory workflows.
• Comfortable working with quantitative datasets; experience with data-analysis or graphing software is beneficial but not required.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Excellent organizational and written/verbal communication skills.
• Highly motivated, adaptable, and comfortable learning through iterative experimental development and troubleshooting.
• Previous experience with ELISA, immunoassays, plate-based assays, or antibody-based techniques is beneficial but not required.