Associate Scientist

Duration: 12 Months W2 Contract (40 hours/week)

The Cell Therapy CAR Screening and Lead Selection (CSLS) Associate Scientist is a contractor role within the Cell & Genetic Medicines (CGM) group at Spring House, PA. This position supports tumor cell line culture, assay setup, plasmid handling, and cross-site shipments. The role is critical in enabling high-quality, automated, high-throughput assays and ensuring reproducible research across Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) sites.

• Perform routine mammalian cell culture activities, including passaging, cell counting, viability assessment, and antigen expression analysis using flow cytometry
• Prepare and seed tumor cells for automated and semi-automated assay workflows, including 96-well plate formats
• Support assay setup in coordination with the Automation team (plate preparation and handoff)
• Manage plasmid intake and inventory: receiving vials, barcode labeling, proper storage, and aliquoting
• Provide molecular biology support (bacterial transformation, plasmid DNA purification, restriction digests, and sequence verification)
• Coordinate preparation, labeling, documentation, and shipment of cell lines, plasmids, and reagents across J&J sites (domestic and international)
• Maintain accurate records in electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN) or sample tracking systems
• Communicate proactively with cross-functional and cross-site stakeholders
• Ensure compliance with biosafety, EH&S, GLP, SOPs, and internal transfer/shipping policies
• Collaborate with Automation and Oncology teams to meet timelines and quality standards

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Cancer Biology, Cell Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant laboratory experience
• Hands‑on experience with mammalian (cancer) cell culture
• Proficiency in aseptic technique and basic cell‑based assays
• Experience using flow cytometry for viability and antigen expression analysis
• Strong attention to detail with high data quality standards
• Excellent organizational, prioritization, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently in a fast‑paced, team‑oriented lab environment
• Authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
• Ability to work onsite in Spring House, PA during standard business hours

• Experience supporting high‑throughput or automated T‑cell–based assays
• Familiarity with multi‑well plate formats (96‑well or similar)
• Experience coordinating cross‑site material transfers and shipments
• Proficiency with ELN or sample tracking systems
• Background in oncology, drug discovery, or T‑cell therapy research
• Experience with molecular biology techniques including plasmid cloning, scale‑up, and QC
• Ability to adapt to evolving workflows and shifting project priorities