Research Associate I

Actalent; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 34,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent in Columbus, OH is seeking a Research Associate I to support early-stage process development by executing experiments that enable the creation and optimization of stable producer cell lines and upstream processes for recombinant biologics and AAV vector production.

The role collaborates with downstream, analytical, and high-throughput teams to deliver robust biologics manufacturing processes in a collaborative environment, with hands-on lab work and thorough documentation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, biology, biochemistry, or related field with 2+ years of relevant experience.
• Hands-on mammalian cell culture including passaging, aseptic processing, transient transfection, and harvest.
• Upstream biologics production experience (antibody or viral vector like AAV/LENTI).
• Experience with qRT-PCR, SDS-PAGE, Western blot, ELISA and related assays.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and scale up mammalian cell culture seed trains using aseptic techniques.
• Develop proficiency in bioreactor control software for small, medium-scale production (3L, 10L, 50L).
• Collect samples and evaluate performance attributes to monitor process health.
• Document protocols, data, observations, and conclusions accurately.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Aseptic processing

Transient transfection

Cell culture harvest

Upstream production

AAV/Lentiviral production

qRT-PCR

SDS-PAGE

Western blot

ELISA

Communication

Project management

Problem solving

Documentation

Education

Bachelors degree in biosciences or related field

Tools

Bioreactor control software

Cell culture equipment

Job description

Job Title: Research Associate IJob Description

The Research Associate I supports early-stage process development by executing experiments that enable the creation and optimization of stable producer cell lines and upstream processes for recombinant biologics and AAV vector production. This role applies biochemistry, cell biology, and engineering expertise to generate reliable, reproducible data with thorough documentation, contributing to early research and development, pre-clinical manufacturing, and scale-up operations. The position collaborates closely with downstream process development, analytical development, and high-throughput automation teams to help deliver robust biologics manufacturing processes in a highly collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and scale up mammalian cell culture seed trains using aseptic techniques to support upstream production activities.
• Develop proficiency in, and become a primary superuser of, control software for bioreactor systems used in small- and medium-scale recombinant protein production (3L, 10L, and 50L).
• Collect routine samples from ongoing productions and evaluate critical performance attributes to monitor process health and productivity.
• Perform daily management of consumables and waste streams, including preparation of buffers, media, and tubing required for experiments and production runs.
• Participate in the maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of cell line development and upstream process development instruments to ensure reliable operation.
• Support upstream team members with experiment setup, execution, breakdown, and submission of analytical samples to relevant testing groups.
• Assist in the accurate and complete documentation of experimental records, including protocols, data, observations, and conclusions.
• Present research findings and experimental results in group meetings to inform team members and leadership of progress and outcomes.
• Coordinate weekly and monthly laboratory activities to ensure efficient use of resources and smooth execution of ongoing projects.
• Contribute to a safe, efficient, and effective team environment by demonstrating personal accountability and adherence to laboratory best practices.

Essential Skills

• Bachelors degree in biomedical engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, biology, biochemistry, or a related field, with 02 years of relevant experience.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture techniques such as cell passaging, aseptic processing, transient transfection, and cell culture harvest.
• Familiarity with upstream techniques for production of biologics, including antibody and/or viral vector (AAV, lentiviral) production.
• Experience with basic biochemistry and molecular biology laboratory techniques such as qRT-PCR, SDS-PAGE, Western blot, ELISA, and related assays.
• Ability to think critically, troubleshoot experiments, and apply problem-solving skills to technical and operational challenges.
• Self-motivation with a strong sense of ownership over assigned responsibilities and willingness to take on temporary duties outside the initial job scope when needed.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced environment with minimal direction and the ability to adjust workload based on changing priorities.
• Proven ability to manage projects and timelines, organize and track complex information, and reprioritize tasks quickly in response to shifting demands.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build open and collaborative relationships and work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working with biology, virology, PCR, molecular biology, RNA, gene therapy, and AAV-related research.
• Background in animal research within a laboratory setting.
• Experience in cell and gene therapy manufacturing or development is a plus.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in both experimental execution and documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to present data clearly and concisely to scientific and cross-functional audiences.
• Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment.
• Enthusiasm for contributing to innovative cell and gene therapy programs in a new, state-of-the-art facility.

Work Environment

This position is based in a laboratory environment within a new, state-of-the-art facility focused on cell and gene therapy manufacturing. The role involves spending most of the day in the lab, including significant time working with animals and performing hands‑on experimental work at the bench and in production areas. Some time will be spent at a desk for data analysis, documentation, and preparation of presentations. Team members work closely with cross‑functional groups in an environment that values collaboration, safety, and continuous improvement. Laboratory attire and appropriate personal protective equipment are required while performing experiments and working in research and production spaces.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Columbus, OH.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $28.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post‑tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long‑term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Columbus,OH.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 9, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [e-mail] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.