What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cell Sciences Senior Research Associate (Upstream Process Development + Pilot Bioreactors) position at Actalent?
Description
Research Associate – Cell Sciences (Upstream Process Development)
Location: North Carolina
Employment Type: Contract
About the Role
We are seeking a Research Associate – Cell Sciences to support upstream process development and scale‑up activities for biologic drug substance programs. This individual will join a collaborative cell sciences team responsible for developing, optimizing, and scaling mammalian cell culture processes to support preclinical and early clinical development.
The role is highly hands‑on and execution‑focused, with responsibilities spanning bench‑scale experimentation through pilot‑scale bioreactor operations.
Key Responsibilities
Execute upstream cell culture experiments using shake flasks, Ambr systems, and bench‑scale bioreactors
Support fed‑batch process development, clone screening, and process optimization
Operate and support pilot‑scale bioreactors, including sampling and feeding activities
Perform media development and screening activities
Execute harvest and clarification steps using depth filtration and/or centrifugation
Analyze experimental data and present results to internal teams
Maintain accurate, GDP‑compliant laboratory documentation
Collaborate with analytical, downstream, and pilot teams to support development objectives
Provide support for time‑sensitive bioreactor operations, including periodic weekend work as needed
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree with 4 years of relevant industry experience, or
Master’s degree with 2 years of relevant industry experience, or
PhD with relevant hands‑on laboratory experience
Skills
upstream process, mammalian cell culture, bioreactors, clone screening, media screening, GDP
Top Skills Details
upstream process,mammalian cell culture,bioreactors,clone screening,media screening,GDP
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Mammalian (CHO) cell culture experience
Bench‑ and pilot‑scale bioreactor operation experience
Fed‑batch process development and scale‑up exposure
Strong aseptic technique and upstream bioprocess fundamentals
Ability to multitask in a fast‑paced development environment
Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills
Experience Level
Intermediate Level
Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Durham, NC.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $40.00 - $50.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Durham,NC.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Mar 20, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
Salary : $40 - $50