Research Associate II, Cell Therapy Editing Strategy and Analytics

Astellas Pharma; Westborough (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

401(k) match

Paid time off + holidays

Bonus eligibility

Long-term incentive plan

Job summary

Astellas Pharma is seeking a Research Associate II to join our Westborough, MA team. This on-site role focuses on AAV-mediated gene-editing of pluripotent stem cells, supporting assay development, cell culture, data analysis, and protocol drafting under guidance to ensure accurate results and compliant documentation.

You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, prepare SOPs and reports, and contribute to pipeline progress while maintaining rigorous quality and safety standards in a

Qualifications

• MS with 0–2 years or BS with 3+ years of relevant experience in mammalian cell culture and analytics.
• Strong organizational, time management and problem solving skills with scientific attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently with guidance and collaborate across teams.

Responsibilities

• Assist in coordination and execution of cellular gene-editing in pluripotent stem cells.
• Perform data collection and analysis for stem cell culture and gene-editing processes.
• Conduct analytical testing of engineered cells using qPCR and flow cytometry.
• Contribute to or review SOPs, reports, and electronic lab notebooks.
• Support quality reviews and investigations to prepare deviation reports and memos.

Skills

Cell culture

Data analysis

qPCR

Flow cytometry

Documentation

Communication

Team collaboration

Time management

Attention to detail

Education

MS (0-2 years) or BS (3+ years) in related field

Tools

qPCR instruments

Flow cytometer

ELN systems

Job description

About Astellas

Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at Astellas.com.

Are you driven to make a real difference in the lives of patients?

We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact.

Purpose & Scope

Astellas carries out AAV-mediated gene-editing of pluripotent stem cells and this Research Associate II will work as part of a team evaluating, planning, and executing all aspects of gene-editing and engineering of pluripotent stem cells. This position will assist with all laboratory operations and will take some responsibility to provide content for various documents and reports. The Research Associate II will support assay development, execution, and qualification activities by performing cell culture and wet lab experiments, analyzing data, and drafting protocols, SOPs and reports. This individual will be expected to execute protocols with some guidance and have the ability to summarize results. They will collaborate closely within team members and across functional groups to advance pipeline programs.

Role And Responsibilities

• Assists in the coordination and execution of cellular gene-editing using various methodologies targeting pluripotent stem cells in a controlled laboratory environment.
• Performs data collection, analysis for stem cell culture and gene-editing processes.
• Performs analytical testing of engineered cells using methods such as qPCR, ddPCR and Flow cytometry
• Contributes to or reviews the work of others, including but not limited to, technical slide decks, reports, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and electronic lab notebooks and production batch records.
• Serves as one of the quality reviewers for controlled documents and assists in investigations to prepare for Deviation Reports and Memos as needed.

Required Qualifications

• An MS with 0-2 years or a BS with 3+ years of highly relevant experience in mammalian cell culture and analytics.
• Strong organizational, time management and problem solving skills with scientific attention to details.
• Ability to work independently with suitable instruction and ability to effectively collaborate with other teams or team members.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent work planning, organization, and record keeping.
• Strong work ethic with a passion for working in a fast-paced, dynamic and diverse work environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with pluripotent stem cell culturing.
• Experience with gene editing of pluripotent stem cells.
• Experience in qPCR and Flow Cytometry methods and data analysis

Location and Working Environment

• This position is based at AIRM in Westboro, MA and will require on-site work.

What awaits you at Astellas?

• Global collaboration: Become part of a connected global business of like-minded life science leaders, all dedicated to improving patients' lives worldwide.
• Real-world patient impact: Contribute to transformative therapies that reach patients around the world, knowing your work makes a difference every day.
• Relentless Innovation: Join a company at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs, where you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of healthcare.
• A Culture of Growth: Chart your own course within a supportive environment that values your contributions, champions your development, and empowers you to pursue your passions.

Our Organizational Values and Behaviors

Values: Innovation, Integrity and Impact sit at the heart of what we do.

Behaviors: We come together as ‘One Astellas’, working with courage and a sense of urgency. We are outcome focused and consistently take accountability for our personal contribution.

Salary Range

$69,790-$99,700 (Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to skills, experience and organizational equity considerations.)

Benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off options, including Vacation and Sick time, plus national holidays including year-end shut down
• 401(k) match and annual company contribution
• Company paid life insurance
• Annual Corporate Bonus and Quarterly Sales Incentive for eligible positions
• Long Term Incentive Plan for eligible positions
• Company fleet vehicle for eligible positions
• Referral bonus program

Category Cell Therapy Analytical and Process Readiness

Astellas is committed to equality of opportunity in all aspects of employment.

EOE including Disability/Protected Veterans