Jahna Soomer-James Email & Phone Number

Boston, Ma, Us

Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States

Lead, design, and execute in vitro studies to characterize antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) activity and support identification and validation of novel ADC targets. Advance Dolasynthen / Immunosynthen ADC pipeline from antibody discovery through IND submission. Share key findings and recommend a path forward with internal and external project teams and senior management.• Performed specialized primary cell experiments and coordinated with external CROs to support revised XMT-2056 treatment strategy.• Support XMT-2056 Phase I clinical trial patient sample transfer and data analysis.• Derive treatment-resistant cell lines and explore combination strategies to support patient unmet need.• Author FDA submissions for Drug Safety Update Report and Fast Track Designation of clinical assets, and patents of ADC innovations.• Spearhead Research Journal Club where inter-departmental discourse on antibody and ADC innovations inform data interpretation and pipeline considerations.

Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States

Performed immune cell isolation, co-culture cytotoxicity and activation marker assays to characterize the mechanism of action of the new Immunosynthen ADC pipeline. Utilized 12-parameter flow cytometry, NanoString gene analysis, qPCR and multiplex cytokine analysis to determine immune compared to cancer cell contributions to antitumor activity.• Identified ADCC activity of clinical candidate, XMT-2056, that synergizes with STING pathway activation.• Investigated other mechanisms of anti-tumor immune activity in response to STING-ADC treatment and examined tumor microenvironment characteristics that can be preferentially targeted.• Conducted IND-enabling studies and drafted reports.

Boston, Massachusetts, United States

Created biosensors for use on microarray platform to analyze exosomes in cancer clinical samples. Designed and optimized assays using qPCR, Western blot, Immunoprecipitation, Ultracentrifugation and Chromatography. Remained current with developments in the EV characterization and oncology field. Documented results and presented to the team. Aided in drafting of manuscripts, grants, SOPs and patent filings. • Designed and optimized custom ELISAs for comparative studies as a potential therapeutic monitoring system. • Validated immune and cancer antibodies to determine exosome origin by colocalization with PD-L1, EpCAM and various checkpoint inhibitors.• Engineered over-expression systems using cell lines and vectors.• Maintained historical data and created statistical models for assessing acceptability of biosensors.

Skokie, Illinois, United States

Provide bench work guidance and training to Study Directors, Analysts, and QC Associates on execution of full catalog offerings of experiments. Educate staff and management on deviation trends and develop long-term automation and improvement projects. Assist with statistics, table generation, report drafting, peer review, and poster/abstract writing. Serve as point of contact for in-lab troubleshooting, maintenance, and study conduct as needed, particularly on experiments with rigid timelines. •Gained continuous education on graphing software (FlowJo, Graph Pad), machine learning models, method development and R&D, and industry genetic technology advances (sequencing, PCR, 3D models, robotics, and automation).•Completed installation and validation of BD FACSCanto II and software, assay validation of high-throughput screens and subsequent training of laboratory staff. •Trained in Immunoassay development techniques and timelines (ELISA / PK assays).•Conducted over 200 and reviewed over 1000 CRO studies, resulting in thorough insights into experiments from start to finish.

Skokie, Illinois, United States

Generated SOPs, updated assay checklists, and performed various equipment qualifications to facilitate department growth. Oversaw hiring staff, laboratory training, career development, scheduling, and personnel actions. Supervised 5 Research Assistants and mentored 2 QC Associates.•Improved lead time by applying Lean Six Sigma principles, thereby increasing client satisfaction and repeat placement of work contracts. •Ensured staff adherence to regulatory requirements and implemented new laboratory processes to aid in the reduction of errors.•Spearheaded the company’s first annual Genetox-Workshop Laboratory Tour, setting the standard for assay demonstrations with client participation.•Created personalized lab-based training plans, assisting and easing the onboarding process of new hires, while focusing on their individual strengths.•Established “Monday morning meetings” for lab staff open communication and schedule discussion, facilitating a smooth and cohesive work environment.

Skokie, Illinois, United States

Performed laboratory analyses, including Ames assay, chromosomal aberration assay, HPBL, and TK6 screening assays and in vitro micronucleus assays under supervision of the Study Director / Principal Investigator. Recorded complete and accurate documentation for assays in compliance with SOPs, protocols, and applicable federal regulations. Coordinated weekly cell line thawing, cleansing, maintenance, and banking. •Inventoried and purchased lab supplies to ensure efficient execution of weekly assays.•Gained insights into drug development and safety assessment through continuous education courses.•Optimized mammalian cell splitting and cleansing schedule and provided reference guides, ensuring sufficient cultures were available for weekly assays.•Performed Microsoft Excel spreadsheet validation, reducing data entry errors.

Chicago, Illinois, United States

Probed and sampled reagents in various stages of the material-manufacturing process and reported non-conformances to supervisors. Worked with and presented findings to a cross-functional team of Scientists, QA Specialists, Production Supervisors, vendors, and operators. Performed quality assurance line checks, statistical analyses, and audits.•Gained GMP experience in a fast-paced, collaborative, dynamic environment.•Introduced new tracking system for measuring and graphing non-conformances, reducing production waste.

Chicago, Illinois, United States

• Worked closely with elderly and underrepresented patients suffering from diabetes and chronic kidney disease.• Communicated with physicians to update patient medical records and screened incoming candidates.• Remained up to date with HIPPA, ICD-10, Medicaid and Medicare regulations.• Travelled along with staff to perform follow up appointments.

Chicago, Illinois, United States

Performed comparative genomic research using bacteria of physiological relevance; executed, improved, and recorded protocols, conducted data analysis and studied related scientific literature. Routinely conducted DNA isolation, sample QC, NGS library preparation, and analysis. Presented research findings at weekly meetings. Collected, stored and sustained laboratory specimen with strict adherence to aseptic technique. https://www.pombertlab.org/alumni•Assisted with lab design, optimizing the space for functionality and productivity.•Gained valuable guidance and hands-on experience with advanced molecular Biology techniques (RT-PCR, gel electrophoresis, plasmid engineering) and NGS statistical analysis, while collaborating with PI and PhD candidates.•Utilized scientific writing experience, which culminated in my MS thesis, which my PI often uses as a writing guide for other students within the lab.•Fine-tuned time management skills while juggling daily research, undergrad and grad coursework, a part-time job and volunteering at the University of Chicago Medicine Emergency Room and as an American Red Cross Dispatcher and CPR instructor.

• Lead weekly discussions about recent scientific discoveries and clinical trials in the field of cancer.• Wrote thought-provoking blogs about pioneering cancer research; Topics: ALL, pediatric cancer, neuroblastoma, melanoma and the University of Chicago Medicine “cancer awareness booth.”

Chicago, Illinois, United States

• Supervised, provided development and recognition to 30 members of the Community Desk Assistant team.• Completed administrative functions; coordinated scheduling desk shifts, trained new and returning staff members on professional, personal and academic issues.

Chicago, Illinois, United States

• Performed daily laboratory research in genetics and immunology using Drosophila animal models.• Maintained stock, sorted larva and identified growth stages for tumor studies.• Carried out preliminary knock out studies.

Castries, St. Lucia, West Indies

• Learned prescription formats, counted and measured medications.• Studied various medications, their therapeutic advantages and specifics on how they are administered.• Developed relationships, suggested products and promoted customer loyalty.

Castries, St. Lucia, West Indies

• Planned and carried out interactive lectures, supervised students during laboratory sessions, graded and assessed written reports.• Homeroom teacher of 8th grade class and responsible for administrative needs; preparation of report books, mentoring and meeting parents to discuss student performance and behavior.

Master Of Science - Ms, Biochemistry And Molecular Biology

Activities and Societies: American Red Cross IIT, IIT Medlife, Residence Hall Association, Presidential Scholars, Undergraduate Research.

Bachelor Of Science - Bs, Biochemistry

Cambridge Advanced Level Certificate, Life Sciences

Natural Sciences

Activities and Societies: Junior Achievers, Young Leaders, Red Cross Society, Photography Club, Spanish Club