Research Associate IV

Role Summary

Research Associate IVs serve as technical leaders within the laboratory, driving complex experimental workflows and ensuring scientific excellence across multiple platforms. This role requires expertise in mammalian cell culture systems and/or multi-parameter flow cytometry, as well as high-content cellular assays. Research Associate IVs independently design, execute, and optimize experiments involving cell growth and cytotoxicity assays, antibody characterization & validation, flow cytometry assays, immunocytochemistry, and other cellular and molecular biology techniques.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrates advanced proficiency in mammalian cell culture, flow cytometry, and other technologies listed in the Position Summary.
• Independently designs, executes, and interprets complex experiments, providing scientific insight and recommending next steps.
• Serves as a technical mentor to fellow Research Associates, Molecular Technologists, and new team members; leads hands-on training in advanced techniques and best practices.
• Develops and optimizes SOPs, workflows, and QC procedures to improve data quality, reproducibility, and operational efficiency.
• Performs routine and advanced maintenance of laboratory equipment; ensures compliance with calibration, documentation, and safety standards.
• Manages reagent and consumable inventory, including verification, documentation, labeling, and storage under appropriate conditions.
• Collaborates cross-functionally with R&D, Operations, Quality and Safety teams to support project goals and troubleshoot technical challenges.
• Contributes to experimental planning, project timelines, and data review discussions with senior scientific staff.
• Performs additional duties as assigned to support laboratory and organizational objectives.

Qualifications

• Required: Extensive hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture, sterile technique, and flow cytometry, including panel design, instrument setup, compensation, and data analysis.
• Required: Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues and interpret multidimensional datasets.
• Required: Proven success working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven research environment. Strong commitment to quality, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
• Required: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present data and train others effectively.
• Required: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across teams and contribute to shared scientific goals.
• Required: Deep understanding of laboratory safety procedures, biohazard handling, chemical safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Required: Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and documentation accuracy.
• Required: Ability to clearly articulate prior experience with flow cytometry, molecular and cellular assays, including controls, data interpretation, and troubleshooting strategies.

Skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and standard laboratory data systems.

Education

• Required: Bachelor's (with six years post-graduate experience) or Master’s degree (with four years post-graduate experience) in a relevant scientific field; equivalent experience considered.
• Preferred: Master’s degree in a biological science field.

Additional Requirements

• Periodical travel and occasional evening, weekend, or holiday work may be required.
• May require after-hours response to urgent laboratory or equipment issues.
• Participation in on-call rotations as needed.
• All job-specific, safety, and compliance training assigned based on responsibilities and regulatory requirements.
• Physical demands: Periodic computer work and use of office equipment for documentation and inventory management.
• Visual acuity to distinguish fine detail; ability to pass a color-vision test.
• Manual dexterity for sterile technique and operation of laboratory instruments.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and perform repetitive motions.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Potential exposure to noise, fumes, chemicals (including carcinogens), and biohazardous materials.
• May handle blood-borne pathogens and general laboratory reagents.
• Possible exposure to extreme temperatures and chemical fumes.