Research Associate; Cancer Cell Culture

We are seeking a talented and highly motivated individual to join our Research Oncology team. This role offers the opportunity to provide scientific support for key laboratory activities, including cell culture and cell line characterization. The candidate will collaborate on various projects, working with colleagues cross-functionally in a fast-paced, resource-rich environment, and will have opportunities for professional growth through the acquisition of new skills and experiences.

This is a 12-month contract based in Foster City, CA.

• Responsible for the expansion, maintenance, cryopreservation, and thawing of multiple cell lines. This includes ensuring proper handling of cell lines and preparation of media with complex supplements.
• Collaborate with team members to assess cell culture needs and provide necessary support for ongoing research activities.
• Engage with various functional areas to evaluate cell culture and cell banking needs and deliver materials according to defined timelines.
• Understand quality control procedures to validate cell lines as needed to ensure experimental integrity.
• Maintain accurate, detailed laboratory notebooks and relevant documentation for all laboratory activities.
• Opportunities to contribute to the development and implementation of genetically modified cell lines and in vitro cell-based assays to support various Oncology projects.

• B.S. degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Cancer Biology, or a related life science field, with a minimum of 3 years of hands‑on experience working with cancer cell lines, primary cells, and genetically engineered cell lines.
• Expertise in aseptic technique and mammalian cell culture, including handling multiple cell lines simultaneously and preparing media with complex supplements.
• Familiarity with cell culture quality control practices such as mycoplasma testing and cell line authentication.
• Preferred Qualifications
• Proficiency in using electronic lab notebooks for experiment documentation, inventory management, and workflow execution.
• Experience optimizing and troubleshooting mammalian cell culture systems.
• Experience in writing and maintaining standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Experience with online genetic databases and the ability to advise on integrating relevant phenotypic and genetic information into our cell bank management systems.
• Experience with biology techniques such as viral and non‑viral transduction or transfection methods (e.g., lentivirus, retrovirus, lipid‑based systems).
• Experience and familiarity with laboratory instruments such as plate readers, cell counters, and automated western blot systems.
• Ability to run basic cell assays and develop cell line banking protocols.
• $66,310-$82,888

As an employee, you have access to a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical insurance – PPO, HMO & HSA
• 401k plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Long‑term disability
• Weekly payroll
• Online timecard approval

R&D Partners is a global functional service provider and strategic staffing resource specializing in scientific, clinical research & engineering. We provide job opportunities within major pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies.

R&D Partners is an equal‑opportunity employer.