Preclinical Research Associate - Gene Therapy (CNS)

Kelly Services; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Kelly® Science & Clinical in Pasadena, CA is seeking a Research Associate for a contract position to join a cutting-edge CNS-focused biotech client. The role offers on-site, full-time work with exposure to gene therapy research in a startup-style environment.

The ideal candidate has hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture and molecular biology, with a strong record of generating robust experimental data and collaborating across projects.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biotechnology, or a related life sciences discipline.
• BS with 4+ years or MS with 2+ years of hands‑on industry experience with mammalian cell culture and molecular biology techniques is required.
• Experience with AAV vector production, siRNA, gene knockdown, cloning, qPCR, Western blotting, flow cytometry, immunological assays, and cell transfection.

Responsibilities

• Perform mammalian cell culture to support ongoing research programs
• Produce and work with AAV vectors, including cell dosing and transfection experiments
• Execute molecular biology techniques such as cloning, gene knockdown, qPCR, and related workflows
• Perform protein and cell-based assays including Western blotting, flow cytometry, and immunological assays
• Support development of therapeutic cargo for CNS-focused gene therapy programs
• Generate, analyze, and accurately document experimental data
• Collaborate with scientists across multiple research projects supporting preclinical therapeutic development
• Contribute to grant-funded rare disease research initiatives while maintaining high-quality laboratory practices

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Molecular biology

qPCR

Western blotting

Flow cytometry

Education

Biology degree

Tools

qPCR

Western blot

Flow cytometry

Job description

Kelly® Science & Clinical in Pasadena, CA is seeking a Research Associate for a contract position to join a cutting-edge CNS-focused biotech client. The role offers on-site, full-time work with exposure to gene therapy research in a startup-style environment.

The ideal candidate has hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture and molecular biology, with a strong record of generating robust experimental data and collaborating across projects.