Research Associate

AT LIFENET HEALTH, YOU ARE THE ADVANTAGE

Every day, YOU help us to save lives, restore health, and bring hope to patients and families around the world. At LifeNet Health, we cultivate growth, innovation, and collaboration, where your contributions drive solutions that benefit humanity.

Together, we are united by a mission greater than ourselves, a purpose rooted in healing.

ABOUT THIS JOB
Location: Virginia Beach, VA (on-site)

Department: Research & Development

Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:15 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (ET), overtime and on-call as needed.

Clinical Status: Clinical
 

HOW YOU’LL MAKE AN IMPACT
The Research Associate I participates in the planning, executing, documenting, analyzing, and reporting of research and validation efforts. Performs complex testing with cell or tissue samples. Maintains essential laboratory records and team-specific Research and Development processing consumable inventories. Supports training on test methods, assays, processing procedures, and equipment/instrument operations.

Your work will have purpose every single day, contributing directly to life-changing outcomes.

This person will be required to frequently sit and stand and occasionally walk.  They will be required to rarely lift (average 50 lbs) and carry items (5-10 feet).  Additionally, this person will be required to pass a pre-employment health screening. 

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Conducts experiments independently to support new products and technology development, including associated process/equipment development and optimization in compliance with LifeNet policy, LifeNet procedures, and Good Laboratory Practices.
• Makes detailed observations, documents, analyzes, and summarizes collected data into effective technical reports under minimal supervision.
• Develops protocols and experimental designs with minimal supervision required to support assigned research, including new graft and equipment development, as well as product development, manufacturing, and validation initiatives. Supports “trouble-shooting” activities for ongoing experimental procedures including graft production and assays.
• Provides assistance in the development of new assays, test methods, and protocols pertaining to research objectives as needed. Assists in the development, writing, and modification of SOPs and forms, and test method validation.
• Conducts appropriate literature reviews when necessary, to begin or support research projects and reports. Provides timely and effective communication (written and oral) of procedures, observations, and results.
• Reviews and maintains team-specific research and Research and Development processing consumable inventories assisting in product acquisitions from internal and external vendors according to established procedures.
• Supports establishment of essential training requirements related to processes and equipment and provides effective training of staff on the operation of equipment and tools with advanced complexity. All other duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING
Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences or a related field
• Three (3) years of related work experience in Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, or a related field

Preferred Experience/Skills/Certifications:

• Master’s degree in Life Sciences or a related field
   

Key Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Laboratory Skills: Proficiency in laboratory skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office: PowerPoint, Excel, Word, Outlook, Microsoft suite.
• Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to communicate and build relationships with all professionals at different levels within the organization.
• Time Management: Ability to prioritize multiple competing priorities and manage time/ workload. Demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize and juggle multiple times sensitive projects, multitask, identify project interdependencies and potential risks pitfalls.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to perform tasks thoroughly and with care.  Checks work to ensure high degree of accuracy/ completeness and early/ on time delivery.
• Scientific Knowledge: A knowledge of anatomy as well as cellular biology.  Basic understanding of chemistry to include chemical interactions and being able to use mathematic formulas to make different concentrations of chemicals.

WHY JOIN LIFENET HEALTH

When you join LifeNet Health, you're not just taking a job, you’re joining a mission-driven community dedicated to making a global impact through regenerative medicine.  You’ll be part of a workplace that values authenticity, collaboration, and the drive to make a difference.

We recognize that great work happens when people feel supported. That’s why our total rewards package is designed to help you thrive both professionally and personally.

Here’s how we support YOU:

• Affordable Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage- Comprehensive care that won’t break the bank.
• Profit Sharing Plan- Share in the success you help create.
• 403(b) Retirement Plan- Invest in your future with confidence.
• Paid Parental Leave- 6 weeks to bond with your newest family member.
• Corporate Sponsored Events- Celebrate milestones and build connections.
• Generous Paid Time Off- Because balance matters:
  • 18 vacation days (based on position, tenure, and state laws)
  • 9 sick days (subject to local and state regulations)
  • 9 holidays (7 standard 2 floating)
• Flexible Work Program- For approved roles, how and where you perform best.
• Tuition reimbursement- We invest in your growth and education.
• Career & Leadership Development- Expand your impact and potential.
• Wellness Program- Prioritize your health with holistic resources.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)- Support for you and your household.
• Incredible teammates- Collaborate with passionate, dedicated professionals.
   

Note: All benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and may be modified at any time, with or without notice, unless otherwise required by law. This job posting does not constitute an employment contract and does not alter the “at-will” nature of employment at LifeNet Health.

COMPENSATION

Salary Range: $24.64 - $32.85 hourly

Final compensation will be based on factors such as geographic location, qualifications, and prior relevant experience. The pay range for this position is $24.64 hourly (entry level qualifications) to $32.85 hourly (experienced in this role). Actual compensation may be higher based on the successful candidate’s knowledge and relevant experience.
 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

LifeNet Health is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

As part of our commitment to safety, we maintain a drug-free workplace and conduct pre-employment substance abuse screening.