Title: Biomedical Fellow
Organization: Position based at an accredited academic institution, with funding support provided through the Castleman Disease Collaborative Network.
Location: In person; the Fellow will split time between associated academic institution and office at 3535 Market Street | Philadelphia, PA 19104
Skills: Detail oriented, reliable and dependable, excellent problem solving skills, strong team player, collaborative, focused on results/mission/impact
Summary:
The Biomedical Research Fellow will lead scientific and translational research efforts to advance the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of Castleman disease. Partnering closely with Drs. Taku Kambayashi, Melanie Mumau, and Josh Brandstadter as well as the CDCN’s Scientific Advisory Board, Madison Ahearn from the CDCN, and members of the Center for Cytokine Storm Treatment & Laboratory (CSTL) at the University of Pennsylvania, this role will help develop and execute the CDCN’s research strategy from mechanistic discovery through clinical application.
Leveraging the ACCELERATE registry and multi-omic patient data, the Fellow will identify high-impact research opportunities, advance strategic initiatives—including development of a diagnostic blood test—and foster global collaborations across academia, industry, and the patient community to accelerate meaningful improvements in patient care.
This Fellowship provides a unique opportunity for a basic science researcher to prepare for a career in industry or biotech through immersive training that bridges the bench-to-bedside gap. The Fellow will develop expertise in multi-omic and translational research, biomarker and therapeutic strategy development, and clinical data integration while collaborating closely with clinical teams, patient advocacy groups, and industry partners. The role will build skills in scientific communication, leadership, and project management and provide experience leading cross-disciplinary teams to advance discoveries through translation.
Responsibilities:
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- Partner with the CDCN and members of the Scientific Advisory Board, the candidate will develop the scientific research plan for the CDCN and monitor progress to ensure that scientific initiatives align with the CDCN’s goals and objectives.
- Work closely with researchers at the University of Pennsylvania Center for Cytokine Storm Treatment & Laboratory (CSTL) to interpret, analyze, and advance research findings related to Castleman disease. Research progress will be evaluated by publications and poster presentations in both areas of translational and basic science.
- Build and manage relationships with physicians, researchers, and scientific advisors to strengthen collaboration and advance research priorities. Organize and host the annual American Society of Hematology (ASH) working dinner and generate a written report summarizing outcomes, identified opportunities, and follow-up actions.
- Engage the patient, physician, and researcher communities to identify and prioritize high-priority research opportunities and collaborations. Participate regularly in CDCN-led meetings including expert panel meetings, SAB meetings, and patient summit(s).
- Advance key strategic initiatives that include developing a diagnostic blood test for Castleman disease. Fellow will push forward efforts to identify a diagnostic biomarker(s) and help disseminate information to the medical community through publication and other platforms such as social media.
- Monitor emerging technologies, trends, and breakthroughs in Castleman disease and immunology research, to inform strategy and accelerate therapeutic and biomarker development.
- Emerge as a technical/scientific subject matter expert for the assigned scientific discipline/disease area of cytokine storms.
Qualifications:
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- Doctoral degree (Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent) in Immunology or related field required
- Work Experience: Proven 5-10+ years experience in a laboratory setting related to biomedical research in Immunology. 1-2 years in a senior scientific role, such as Scientific Lead, Research Director, or similar. Experience working with human specimens required.
- Extensive knowledge and experience in biomedical research.
- Ability to translate complex scientific concepts into actionable strategies and recommendations.
- Strong collaboration and communication skills to work effectively across diverse teams.
How to Apply: Please email a cover letter detailing your interest and fit for this role and a resume to info@castlemannetwork.org by Friday, August 14.