Research Associate

Research Associate 

Work Location: On-site, Athens Georgia

Job Type: Full-time, Exempt

We are seeking a Research Associate to support the Process Development (PD) team in executing viral vaccine manufacturing processes. This role reports to a Sr. Scientist. The associate will be responsible for performing defined experimental protocols and maintaining standard laboratory operations for both upstream and downstream bioprocessing. 

We make the most of our team members’ skills and passion by actively supporting our employees to achieve their career goals with us.  We offer a competitive compensation package, benefits and perks.

Key Responsibilities

What this role will achieve (goals):

• Primary duties include conducting aseptic cell culture, supporting viral vector production and scale-up utilizing bioreactor systems
• Executing downstream virus purification protocols via centrifugation, tangential flow filtration (TFF), and chromatography.
• Operating under the direction of senior scientific staff, the candidate will collect and document experimental data to assist in the optimization of production workflows.
• Develop basic scientific and technical skills through standardized tasks and develop problem solving abilities.
• Learn and consistently follow established protocols and experimental designs.

What does success look like (metrics)?

• Demonstrated a basic level of competency in scientific and technical skills.
• Effectively communicate work status with the supervisor and proactively seek guidance when necessary.
• Document experimental design and record data accurately.

The Requirements

 Soft or Technical Skills needed:

• Basic scientific and technical skills in molecular/cellular biology, virology, and immunology.
• Ability to document experimental design, record data, and prepare basic reports.
• Good communication skills for discussing scientific procedures and results.
• Proactive in seeking guidance when needed.
• Ability to work independently on routine tasks under supervision.

Work experience needed:

• 0-3 years of hands-on laboratory experience in an academic or industrial setting.
• Demonstrated ability to carry out routine work and experiments.
• Prior experience with automated laboratory instrumentation and a foundational understanding of cGMP manufacturing practices are highly advantageous, but not strictly required.

Knowledge, education, and/or training needed:

• Bachelor's (BS) or Master's (MS) degree in Life Sciences or related field.
• Knowledge in cell culture, molecular cloning, RT-PCR, and immunological assays.
• Basic understanding of virology and molecular biology techniques

Additional Information

The company strives to offer a comprehensive benefit package for our employees including but not limited to the following:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance