Description

Overview

The Pelotonia Institute for ImmunoOncology (PIIO) is a benchtobedside research enterprise advancing nextgeneration cancer immunotherapies through fundamental discovery, translational science, and clinical innovation. The Senior Writer will primarily support the laboratory of Dr. Zihai Li, whose program focuses on immune regulation, GARP biology, and the development of novel immunotherapeutic platforms—including targeted antibodies and engineered cell therapies for solid tumors. This position plays a central role in clearly and accurately communicating the scientific impact of PIIO’s work.

Position Summary

The Research Communications Senior Writer is a specialized scientific writer responsible for producing highquality manuscripts, grant applications, scientific reports, and strategic communication materials that articulate PIIO’s research priorities and discoveries. The ideal candidate will bring advanced training in immunology, deep familiarity with scientific research processes, and a demonstrated record of successful scientific writing, including peerreviewed manuscripts and funded grant proposals.

This role requires a combination of scientific literacy, editorial expertise, project management, and the ability to communicate complex immunological concepts for scientific, clinical, industry, and lay audiences.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline, journalism/communication, or related field; advanced degree in immunology or a related biomedical field strongly preferred.
Minimum of 4 years of relevant scientific writing experience, with a portfolio that includes: 
Peerreviewed research manuscripts
Scientific reviews
Grant applications (including evidence of successful funding outcomes)
Proven editorial expertise with strong command of scientific terminology, grammar, organization, and accuracy.
Experience writing in a biomedical research environment, especially cancer, immunology, or translational science.
Demonstrated ability to synthesize complex mechanistic immunology data into clear narrative form.
Familiarity with digital media platforms and basic graphic tools (e.g., BioRender, Canva) preferred.
Strong projectmanagement skills with the ability to handle multiple simultaneous projects and deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications

Advanced training in immunology (e.g., PhD, MS, or extensive laboratorybased background).
Documented history of successful grant writing (e.g., NIH K, R, P30/P50 components, foundation awards) with clear description of the candidate’s role.
Experience supporting translational or immunotherapyfocused laboratories.
Evidence of independent writing contributions rather than strictly editorial support.