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Research Associate, Molecular & Cellular Biology

Chicago, IL 60642

Posted: 03/11/2025 Employment Type: Contract To Hire Job Category: Scientific Job Number: 618281 Is job remote?: No Country: United States

Job Description

Ideally C2H  -convert at or before six months
Onsite 

  PRIMARY ROLE: A small biopharma company, pioneering cell therapy company, is seeking a talented and highly motivated researcher with experience in molecular and cellular biology to foster the development of innovative therapies for various therapeutic indications.  The successful candidate will contribute to the research development of pipeline candidates. This position requires a hands-on individual with good laboratory experience. The successful candidate will have a problem-solving mindset and a solid understanding of cell culture and cellular and molecular biology techniques.  Additional expertise in molecular biology, cell therapy, gene therapy/gene editing, or functional genomics is preferred.  Knowledge of analytical assay development, as well as high-throughput screening, is a plus. The R&D team will collaborate closely with PD, AD, and QA colleagues and lead external collaborations with contract development (CRO).
 
As a member of the cell biology team, you will work under the direction of the Senior Director, Molecular and Cellular Biology collaborating on cell culture and differentiation experiments.  Experience in general laboratory facilities, safety, and techniques is also desired.  This is an exciting interdisciplinary role in a dynamic, rapidly advancing company that will contribute directly to the progression of new therapies as well as the identification of new technologies and disease-modifying therapeutics. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:       
  • Assist senior staff in executing and analyzing experiments in pipeline development.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records, including experimental data and observations.
  • Conduct experiments in molecular and cellular biology, including but not limited to:
    • DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR and molecular cloning
    • Protein expression and analysis (e.g. western blotting, ELISA, flow cytometry)
    • Cell culture, transfection, and functional assays
  • Operate, maintain, calibrate, and validate essential lab equipment such as biological safety cabinets, incubators, pipet aids, balances, and centrifugation.
  • Under the direction of senior personnel to develop and optimize experimental protocols to meet project objectives.
  • Assist in maintaining appropriate inventory levels of all materials and supplies needed to support the pipeline development work.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to achieve pipeline development.
  • Ensure compliance with laboratory safety protocols and regulatory guidelines.
  • Work with senior team members to prepare experimental plans, record/analyze data, and prepare summary reports.
  • Support research development by maintaining adequate inventory levels of materials and supplies.
  • Ability to work a standard schedule and limited weekend work as necessary to complete experiments.
  • May train other personnel on operating procedures for processes and equipment.
  • May perform additional duties as required.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • BS degree in Neuroscience, molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry, or related discipline, with 1-2 years of research experience; industrial experience is a plus.
  • Familiarity with mammalian cell culture and characterization, specifically in stem cell culture and differentiation, is a plus.
  • Proficiency in basic and advanced molecular biology techniques (e.g. qPCR, ELISA, flow cytometry. Plate-base assays).
  • Good analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail.
  • Organized, detail-oriented, and excellent record-keeping skills.
  • Knowledge of experimental design and statistical analysis tools (e.g., GraphPad Prism)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Prove ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize assignments.
  • Ability to work independently with direction and perform well in a team environment.
  • Identify and communicate experimental data and provide feedback for pipeline development to project lead and team members.
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