Are you ready to join Connecticut Innovation’s vibrant community of innovators? Connecticut Innovations (“CI”) is Connecticut’s strategic venture capital arm, and we are passionate about serving our portfolio of 220+ companies across various industries, with strengths in life sciences, technology, and climate tech.

Come join Encapsulate as a Cancer Research Scientist!

Encapsulate Overview

Encapsulate is a venture-backed, pioneering MedTech company that specializes in precision diagnostics for personalized cancer therapy. Its patented, tumor-on-a-chip system provides precision, evidence-based insights that will empower oncologists to deliver the optimal treatment to each patient. We screen microtumors derived from patient biopsies against existing clinical treatment regimens and generate personalized insights to guide treatments in under 7 days. By providing patient-specific insights, we are reshaping how treatments are selected, improving outcomes, and reducing unnecessary side effects. Every cancer patient’s tumor is unique, and patients deserve unique solutions.

• The technology was developed while the founders were still PhD students at UConn and remains headquartered in UConn’s Technology Incubator Program facility in Farmington, CT.
• Encapsulate recently had an oversubscribed seed funding round, led by Blackwood Healthcare Breakthroughs, Ambit Health Ventures, and Connecticut Innovations.

Why Join Encapsulate?

• Our initial commercial focus targets the $4 billion precision diagnostics market in Colorectal and pancreatic cancers.
• Our patented technology will address the following cancer treatment deficiencies - ineffective chemotherapy cycles, progressively lower chances for treatment success, rising unsuccessful treatment costs, and higher fatality rate due to chemotherapy toxicity.
• In November 2024, we secured 2nd place at the 2024 Entrepreneurship World Cup Global Finals! The top 100 finalists, selected from 16,000 startups across 200+ countries, were invited to pitch at the 2024 Global Finals following rigorous national and regional qualifiers, global pool selections, and a bootcamp for the top 250 companies.
• In July 2024, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced us as “Innovator of the Month” for their development of a transformative contribution to cancer treatment.
• In March 2024, we launched our technology to the International Space Station.
• We received a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I award from the U.S. National Science Foundation.

Cancer Research Scientist | Job Description

We are seeking a Cancer Research Scientist to join our dynamic, innovative team. This is an exciting opportunity to lead research at the forefront of biotechnology, working with cutting-edge platforms and directly contributing to better outcomes for cancer patients worldwide. If you are passionate about scientific discovery, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and excel in experimental design, this role offers the perfect platform to advance your career and make a meaningful impact.

• Process patient biopsy samples and create 3D organoid cell cultures.
• Design and execute experimental protocols using advanced cell culture techniques.
• Analyze and document experimental data and present high-quality reports in line with regulatory and scientific standards.
• Contribute to the innovation and refinement of our cutting-edge microfluidics technology.
• Collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers to drive impactful outcomes.
• Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment while upholding strict quality control standards.
• Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and contribute to Encapsulate’s scientific strategy.

Minimum Qualifications

• Holds a graduate degree (PhD preferred) in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s with relevant experience may be considered).
• Has hands-on experience with cell culture, sequencing, RNA/DNA analysis, spheroid/organoid systems, and biological assays.
• Is proficient in fluorescence staining, microscopy (confocal preferred), and image analysis.
• Demonstrates experiences with microfluidics technology and on-chip systems.
• Possesses strong data analysis skills, with expertise in experimental documentation and presentation.
• Excels in problem-solving, attention to detail, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrates curiosity, creativity, and a drive to find novel solutions to challenging problems.
• Is self-motivated, adaptable, and thrives in a collaborative, high-performance, mission-driven environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced expertise in image analysis techniques.
• Experience with AI, microfluidics, and biochip fabrication.
• Knowledge of genetics, sequencing technologies, and biostatistics.
• Familiarity with advanced statistical methods and computational tools.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Connecticut Innovations and its portfolio companies are an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We have strict wage minimums, generous benefits, and personal leave policies. Our goal is to provide safe, rewarding, and empowering work environments for all who interact with our company and/or portfolio companies.