Sr. Research Associate, Upstream Process Development (Contract)

Sci.bio Recruiting; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A biopharmaceutical recruiting firm is seeking an experienced Senior Research Associate in Boston, MA, to support upstream bioprocess development focusing on mammalian cell culture and bioreactor operations. Ideal candidates will be detail-oriented and adept at working collaboratively in a fast-paced laboratory. Responsibilities include conducting genetic manipulation experiments and maintaining rigorous documentation. This position requires strong teamwork and communication skills alongside expertise in bioprocess development.

Qualifications

• Experience with primary and stem cell culture preferred.
• Familiarity with bioreactor operations at small- to mid-scale.
• Strong laboratory documentation skills and attention to regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Perform mammalian cell culture following aseptic techniques.
• Operate and optimize small- to mid-scale bioreactors for upstream process development.
• Conduct cell transfection and genetic manipulation experiments.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Bioreactor operations

Cell engineering

Laboratory documentation skills

Teamwork

Problem-solving abilities

Job description

We are looking for an experienced Senior Research Associate to support upstream bioprocess development for biologics. This contract position will focus on mammalian cell culture, bioreactor operations, and cell engineering to advance early- to late-stage process development. The ideal candidate is hands‑on, detail‑oriented, and comfortable working in a collaborative, fast‑paced lab environment.

Job Responsibilities:

• Perform mammalian cell culture, including primary and stem cell lines, following aseptic techniques.
• Operate and optimize small- to mid-scale bioreactors (0.5 L – 10 L) for upstream process development.
• Conduct cell transfection, transduction, and other genetic manipulation experiments.
• Maintain meticulous laboratory documentation, including SOPs, batch records, and lab notebooks.
• Troubleshoot experimental workflows and provide actionable insights for process improvements.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to support upstream development objectives.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Experience with primary and stem cell culture preferred.
• Familiarity with bioreactor operations at small- to mid-scale and optimization of cell growth processes.
• Knowledge of cell transfection, transduction, and genetic engineering techniques.
• Strong laboratory documentation skills and attention to regulatory and SOP compliance.
• Excellent teamwork, communication, and problem‑solving abilities.