Research Associate I (Cell Culture)

WaveCrest Staffing Group; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 34,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

WaveCrest Staffing Group is assisting a biotechnology client in Columbus, OH, by recruiting a Research Associate I focused on cell culture and upstream process development. The role targets entry-level scientists with hands-on lab experience in mammalian cell culture and aseptic technique.

The position supports development efforts for biologics and viral vectors, with exposure to bioreactors and analytical assays.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, or related field required.
• 0-2 years of lab experience; recent grads encouraged.
• Hands-on mammalian cell culture and aseptic techniques preferred.
• Experience with cell passaging, transfection, culture scale-up is desirable.
• Exposure to upstream bioprocessing or viral vectors is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Maintain, expand, and scale up mammalian cell cultures with aseptic techniques.
• Support cell line development and upstream process experiments for proteins and viral vectors.
• Assist with small- to medium-scale bioreactor operations (BioFlo 320, 3L/10L/50L).
• Collect and analyze samples to evaluate process performance.
• Prepare laboratory materials, buffers, and consumables.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Aseptic techniques

Documentation

Analytical techniques (qPCR, ELISA)

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology / Biochemistry / Biomedical Engineering / Chemical Engineering / Chemistry or related field

Tools

BioFlo 320 systems

Bioreactor operations

Laboratory instrumentation

Job description

Research Associate I – Cell Culture & Upstream Process Development

Location: 100% Onsite

Pay Rate: $25-$30/hour

Schedule: 1st Shift, Monday–Friday

Duration: 1-Year Contract to Start

Position Overview

Our client, a biotechnology company, is seeking a Research Associate I to support early-stage process development activities focused on mammalian cell culture, cell line development, and upstream bioprocessing.

This is an excellent opportunity for an entry-level or early-career scientist to gain hands‑on experience supporting the development and optimization of cell lines and manufacturing processes used to produce biologics and viral vectors.

The ideal candidate will have a background in biology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, or a related scientific discipline, along with laboratory experience in mammalian cell culture and aseptic techniques.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain, expand, and scale up mammalian cell cultures using proper aseptic techniques.
• Support cell line development and upstream process development experiments for recombinant proteins and viral vectors.
• Assist with small- and medium-scale bioreactor operations, including BioFlo 320 systems (3L, 10L, and 50L).
• Collect and analyze samples from ongoing cell culture experiments to evaluate process performance.
• Prepare laboratory materials, buffers, tubing, and other consumables needed for experiments.
• Assist with bioreactor setup, operation, cleaning, and breakdown.
• Support routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Perform basic laboratory testing and analytical techniques to support research activities.
• Accurately document experimental procedures, observations, and results in laboratory records.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Analytical Development, Downstream Process Development, and Automation.
• Participate in laboratory meetings and communicate experimental findings to team members.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment while following established procedures.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related scientific field required.
• 0-2 years of relevant laboratory experience; recent graduates with applicable academic research or internship experience are encouraged to apply.
• Hands‑on experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic laboratory techniques preferred.
• Familiarity with cell passaging, transient transfection, cell harvesting, or cell culture scale‑up is highly desirable.
• Exposure to upstream bioprocessing, bioreactors, or recombinant protein production is a plus.
• Experience with analytical laboratory techniques such as qPCR, SDS‑PAGE, Western blotting, or ELISA preferred.
• Previous experience working with biologics, antibodies, or viral vectors (AAV/lentiviral) is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to maintain accurate experimental documentation.
• Good organizational, troubleshooting, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with a multidisciplinary scientific team.
• Strong communication skills and willingness to learn new laboratory techniques.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and adapt to changing research priorities.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Gain valuable hands‑on experience in cell culture, bioreactor operations, and upstream process development.
• Work alongside experienced scientists in a collaborative biotechnology research environment.
• Build technical skills supporting the development of biologics and advanced therapies.
• Excellent opportunity for recent graduates or early-career scientists looking to expand their industry laboratory experience.
• Competitive hourly compensation with a 1-year initial contract.