Associate Scientist

What we are looking for:

This Associate Scientist role is responsible for the characterization of cell-based interactions with Secant Group poly(glycerol ester) technologies under the supervision of senior level scientists as part of Secant’s Research team in Telford, PA. The scientist should have knowledge of commonly used instrumentation, concepts, analytical methods and biologic handling procedures associated with cell biology and biomedical engineering. Will also have daily exposure to a biological lab environment and will have occasional exposure to chemical labs, manufacturing environments, and environmentally controlled rooms. 

What you will do:

• Works with Secant Group scientists to develop and assess biomaterials and polymers for use as gene delivery reagents, cell-based therapies, and as components in cell processing and viral manufacturing applications.
• Improves scientific understanding of Secant Group materials impact on the maintenance, expansion, differentiation, activation, and transfection of various cell types and helps develop new assessment methods for characterizing cell response.
• Generates and analyzes data relevant to the characterization of various cell types using in vitro cellular and biochemical assays such as ELISA, cytokine detection kits, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, live cell imaging, fixed cell imaging, and luminescence-based assays.
• Characterize changes in Secant Group materials performance as a function of storage conditions.
• Perform experiments to better understand how Secant Group materials interact with biological surfaces.
• Generates data used for external-facing technical presentations, communications with commercial partners, and as part of SOWs.
• Usage and maintenance of standard biological lab equipment such as biological safety cabinets, cell counters, fluorescence microscopes, plate readers, centrifuges, and flow cytometers.
• Clearly communicates technical information and project status to supervisor and colleagues through written and verbal manner.
• Presents research findings at weekly group meetings, through white papers, and at conferences.
• Accurately and thoroughly documents procedures and results using laboratory notebooks, protocols & reports, records and databases.
• Collaborates with colleagues on laboratory techniques, sample preparation, experimental design, instrumentation, data analysis and documentation.
• Helps manage laboratory inventory.
• Responsible for daily and weekly upkeep of biological lab equipment and cell inventories.
• Provides support towards the development of Secant Group Intellectual Property through supporting experimentation, identification of potential new technologies, and generation of invention disclosures in accordance with Secant Groups IP policies.
• Develops work instructions, S.O.P.’s and other testing methods for cell-material analysis.
• Follows all applicable Secant Group test methods, work instructions, S.O.P.’s and guidelines.

Who you are:

• Bachelor or MS Degree in the fields of Biomaterials, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Engineering, or equivalent.
• 1-3 years related practical experience with cell culture and performing cell-based assays.
• Experience with small scale cell expansion technologies such as culture flasks, multi-well plates, and bioreactors.
• Proficient with aseptic cell culture techniques for both adherent and suspension cells.
• Practical experience with cell culture related tools such as fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, plate reader assays including ELISAs, and cell counters.
• Has basic experience with processes related to cell cryopreservation, selection, activation, expansion, and/or transfection of cells.
• Practical experience with nanoparticle characterization equipment such as DLS and zeta potential.
• Prior work experience in a regulated environment (ISO 9001, 13485 and QSR Standards) a plus.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel. Experience with image analysis software and flow cytometry analysis software a plus.
• Detail oriented, organized, hands-on with drive for solving problems in a timely manner.
• Accurately analyze data generated by various analytical and physical testing instrumentation.
• Solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.

What we offer:

• Annual Bonuses
• Generous PTO
• Health Insurance: Medical with Rx plan / Dental / Vision
• 401k (retirement savings) with excellent company match
• Company Paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability