Upstream Associate

Sino Biological, Inc.; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Sino Biological, Inc. in Houston, TX, is seeking an entry-level Associate, Upstream. You will assist recombinant protein and antibody expression in mammalian cell cultures (HEK293/CHO) and support QC testing with emphasis on accuracy and documentation.

The role offers collaboration with project scientists, flexible weekend/shift options, and involvement in essential lab maintenance in a global biotech setting. Ideal for launch into an industrial biotechnology career.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related field.
• 0-3 years of lab experience with mammalian cell culture; HEK293 and CHO preferred.
• Familiarity with suspension culture and aseptic techniques.
• Basic experience with analytical assays such as SDS-PAGE, HPLC-SEC, UV-Vis, or endotoxin testing is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail, documentation, and troubleshooting skills.
• Flexible and adaptable to varying schedules or project demands.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Must be able to lift and move 25-50 lbs as needed.

Responsibilities

• Perform recombinant protein expression using mammalian systems such as HEK293 and CHO.
• Execute upstream workflows including cell thawing, expansion, transfection, and harvesting.
• Maintain lab cleanliness, including biosafety cabinets, incubators, and shared spaces.
• Handle and maintain cell cultures using proper aseptic techniques.
• Conduct protein quality control assays, including SDS-PAGE, HPLC-SEC, endotoxin testing, and UV-Vis measurements.
• Record data and observations in electronic lab notebooks accurately and promptly.
• Assist with media/reagent preparation, equipment setup, and maintenance tasks.
• Support instrument calibration, troubleshooting, and lab upkeep.
• Collaborate with downstream and cross-functional teams to ensure smooth project execution.
• Conduct product aliquoting to meet delivery timelines.
• Adhere to all safety and PPE protocols under federal, state, and local regulations.

Skills

Attention to detail

Documentation

Troubleshooting

Communication

Team collaboration

Flexibility

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology/Cell Biology/Biochemistry/Biotechnology

Tools

SDS-PAGE

HPLC-SEC

UV-Vis

Endotoxin testing

Job description

Sino Biological is a world-renowned reagent supplier and contract research organization, listed on ChiNext of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (301047 Sino Biological Inc.). Our core technology platform is an in-house-developed mammalian cell-based recombinant expression system that leverages proprietary reagents and processes for high-efficiency production of antigens and antibodies. We are headquartered in Beijing, China, with a U.S. base in the Greater Philadelphia area, an office and bioprocessing center in Houston, Texas, and subsidiaries in Frankfurt, Germany, and Kawasaki, Japan. Sino Biological is committed to providing high-quality recombinant protein and antibody reagents and to being a one-stop technical services shop for life science researchers worldwide. All of our products are independently developed and produced. In addition, we offer pharmaceutical companies and biotechnology firms pre-clinical production technology services for hundreds of monoclonal antibody drug candidates.

Job Description

This entry-level, hands-on role offers experience in both upstream bioprocessing and protein quality control (QC) for individuals looking to launch their industrial biotechnology career. As an Associate, Upstream, you’ll assist in recombinant protein and antibody expression using mammalian cell cultures, while also supporting QC testing to evaluate product quality. You’ll work closely with project scientists, contributing to aseptic cell culture, transfection, harvest, and analytical testing, all with an emphasis on accuracy, documentation, and collaboration across teams. Flexibility is key, including potential weekend work, early/late weekday shifts, and participation in essential lab maintenance or cross-functional support tasks as needed.

Responsibilities

• Perform recombinant protein expression using mammalian systems such as HEK293 and CHO.
• Execute upstream workflows including cell thawing, expansion, transfection, and harvesting.
• Maintain lab cleanliness, including biosafety cabinets, incubators, and shared spaces.
• Handle and maintain cell cultures using proper aseptic techniques.
• Conduct protein quality control assays, including SDS-PAGE, HPLC-SEC, endotoxin testing, and UV-Vis measurements.
• Record data and observations in electronic lab notebooks accurately and promptly.
• Assist with media/reagent preparation, equipment setup, and maintenance tasks.
• Support instrument calibration, troubleshooting, and lab upkeep.
• Collaborate with downstream and cross-functional teams to ensure smooth project execution.
• Conduct product aliquoting to meet delivery timelines.
• Adhere to all safety and PPE protocols under federal, state, and local regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (BA or BS) in Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• 0-3 years of lab experience with mammalian cell culture; HEK293 and CHO preferred.
• Familiarity with suspension culture and aseptic techniques.
• Basic experience with analytical assays such as SDS-PAGE, HPLC-SEC, UV-Vis, or endotoxin testing is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail, documentation, and troubleshooting skills.
• Flexible and adaptable to varying schedules or project demands.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Must be able to lift and move 25-50 lbs as needed.

Why Join Us at C4B?

• World-class location: Be part of the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world, where biotech innovation thrives.
• Beautiful work environment: Enjoy a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility designed for collaboration and scientific excellence.
• Free onsite parking: Skip the hassle and expense of parking in the Medical Center, we’ve got you covered.
• Free onsite gym: Stay active and energized with convenient access to fitness facilities right at work.
• Career growth opportunities: Learn directly from industry professionals while growing your career at a global biotech company.
• Supportive team culture: A welcoming, team-first workplace that values diversity, collaboration, and professional development.

Join Us in Advancing Scientific Innovation!

Be a part of Sino Biological and contribute to groundbreaking scientific advancements worldwide.

Sino Biological is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.