Lab Operations Specialist

Vivodyne; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Vivodyne in Philadelphia, PA is seeking a lab technician to support groundbreaking research in human therapeutics through primary cell culture work. This role involves collaborating with various teams, ensuring smooth lab operations, and maintaining supplies.

The ideal candidate will have a BS/MS in a life sciences field and 2-3 years of industry experience, particularly in primary cell culture and related techniques. Competitive compensation is offered based on experience.

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of experience in an industry setting with primary cell culture.
• Experience with cell-based assays, flow cytometry, qPCR, ELISA, and microscopy.
• Detail-oriented and able to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Perform primary cell culture and cryopreservation.
• Ensure smooth laboratory operations and maintain inventory.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support research initiatives.

Skills

Cell culture techniques

Cell and molecular biology

Data-driven problem-solving

Teamwork

Communication skills

Education

BS/MS in Biology or related field

Tools

Lab automation systems

Inventory management software

Job description

Vivodyne creates human data before clinical trials.

We accelerate the successful discovery, design, and development of human therapeutics by testing on large, lab-grown human organ tissues at massive scale, driving technological advancement at the convergence of novel biology, robotics, and AI. We identify and validate new therapeutic targets and de-risk new therapeutic assets by producing clinically translatable multi‑omic data from our proprietary, physiologically‑realistic human organ tissues at unprecedented scale, speed, and quality. This enables us to produce more human data than all clinical trials in the U.S. combined. We’re financially backed by some of the most selective and successful venture funds, and we have already partnered with a majority of the top 10 multinational pharmaceutical companies to discover and develop better, safer drugs and dramatically reduce the burden of animal testing.

In this role, you will support the advancement of our groundbreaking research initiatives with primary cell culture work and ensuring the smooth operation of our laboratory environment. You will collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams to support ongoing scientific programs by performing primary cell culture and cryopreservation. You will also perform routine tasks such as stocking consumables, preparation of media, reagents, and samples, and coordinating biohazardous waste handling, and assisting with regular organization and maintenance of inventory. This role will support both the operations and biology teams, and requires the dynamic ability and mentality to roll up your sleeves and take on ad‑hoc support as needed.

Requirements and Expectations

Operating and Improving

Be process oriented and determined to find optimal approaches for cell culture process and techniques, lab maintenance, and protocols, considering efficiency and effectiveness. Provide insights and recommendations based on data and feedback sessions to improve lab processes and workflows. Collaborate to prioritize tasks and projects, ensuring alignment with business objectives. Maintain systems for sharing knowledge and best practices among lab members, and support the implementation and adoption of new lab technologies and methodologies. Use data‑driven insights to make informed decisions and drive continuous improvement in maintenance of cell inventory and lab operations.

Teamwork and communication

You thrive in a team‑oriented environment, where collaboration and communication are key to achieving our collective goals. Support cross‑functional initiatives to streamline lab processes and enhance collaboration. Proactively identify and address risks and roadblocks to ensure your role in project timelines are met. Be a clear communicator of progress, outcomes, and challenges to relevant stakeholders in a clear and timely manner. Document your learnings in a data‑driven manner and share them with others.

Adaptability and flexibility

Possess strong problem‑solving skills to troubleshoot experimental and operational issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions. Bounce back from failures, learn from them, and persist in your pursuit of laboratory excellence. You possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and are always on the lookout for ways to make our systems simpler and more efficient – whether through consolidating systems, overhauling existing systems, or updating documentation. No detail is too small to improve, and no imperfection too minor to correct.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Engineering or a related Life Sciences field
• Minimum 2‑3 years of experience in an industry setting, particularly with primary cell culture
• Demonstrated experience in cell and molecular biology techniques (e.g., cell-based assays, flow cytometry, qPCR, ELISA, microscopy and aseptic technique)
• Demonstrated experience with lab automation or high-throughput systems (e.g., liquid handlers, robotic platforms) or supporting automated workflows (setup, monitoring, basic troubleshooting) is a plus
• Familiarity with basic EH&S and BSL2 safety
• Detail‑oriented with data-driven problem-solving and organizational skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Familiarity with inventory management software and electronic lab notebooks

Vivodyne, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Vivodyne complies with all laws respecting equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate against applicants with regard to any protected characteristic as defined by federal, state, and local law.

Compensation will be determined based on several factors including, but not limited to, skill set, years of experience, and the employee’s geographic location.

Pay Range

$70,000 - $110,000 USD