Multiplex & Staining Neurology Scientist

Job Title: Multiplex & IF Staining Neurology Scientist Location: Gaithersburg, MD Duration: 3-4 Month Contract with potential of exp Key Responsibilities Multiplex Immunofluorescence & High Plex Imaging (Core Focus)Perform multiplex IF staining on FFPE tissue sections, including complex, high parameter antibody panels specific to neurological targets and pathways.Operate Cell DIVE™ or comparable high plex imaging platforms, including image acquisition, optimization, and troubleshooting.Execute image pre processing, segmentation, quality control, and multiplex imaging analysis workflows.Evaluate staining quality, signal specificity, background, and reproducibility across neuro tissue samples.Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and performance checks on imaging instrumentation.

Neurology Focused Histology & Tissue ProcessingPrepare and process FFPE neural tissue samples, including embedding, sectioning, and slide preparation.Conduct automated and manual IHC staining (Ventana, Leica, Dako, etc.), with a focus on neuroscience biomarkers.Optimize staining protocols for difficult neural tissues and complex multiplex panels.Ensure accurate documentation, sample tracking, and traceability throughout lab workflows.

Multiplex Image Analysis & Data InterpretationPerform quantitative multiplex imaging analysis for spatial biology datasets derived from neurological tissues.Review and QC imaging outputs to ensure scientific rigor and reproducibility.Support interpretation of spatial patterns, co localization, and biomarker expression relevant to neuro biology.Facilitate structured data handoff to pathology, translational science, and bioinformatics teams.

Scientific Collaboration & EngagementParticipate in cross functional meetings with translational, pathology, biomarker, and neuroscience stakeholders.Contribute scientific input to study design, assay optimization, and troubleshooting activities.Balance hands on wet lab work with scientific discussions and planning meetings, ensuring alignment with program objectives.Maintain high quality documentation in accordance with the clients lab standards and regulatory expectations.

Required Qualifications Scientist (BS / MS Level)BS or MS in Biology, Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Pathology, Biomedical Sciences, or related field.Hands on experience with IHC and multiplex IF staining, preferably using automated platforms.Demonstrated experience handling FFPE tissues, ideally neural or CNS derived samples.Familiarity with microscopy, image acquisition, and basic image analysis principles.Strong attention to detail and ability to execute standardized laboratory workflows.

Senior Scientist (PhD Level)PhD in Neuroscience, Immunology, Pathology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Engineering, or related discipline.Extensive experience with multiplex IF staining, high plex panel development, and optimization.Proven expertise with high plex imaging technologies (Cell DIVE™, PhenoCycler, MIBI, CosMx, etc.).Strong background in multiplex imaging analysis and spatial biology, preferably applied to neurology programs.

Preferred SkillsExperience with multiplex image analysis software (HALO, QuPath, CellProfiler, or similar).Familiarity with neurological disease biology, CNS biomarkers, or translational neuroscience research.Ability to troubleshoot staining challenges, imaging artifacts, or analytical inconsistencies in neural tissues.Experience working in GLP like or highly structured laboratory environments.

Soft Skills & AttributesStrong communication skills with the ability to engage in both technical lab work and scientific discussions.Comfortable managing time between wet lab execution and collaborative meetings.Self directed, organized, and able to prioritize deliverables in a fast paced research setting.High scientific rigor with excellent documentation practices.