Assay Technologist Rockville, MD

Axle is a bioscience and information technology company that offers advancements in translational research, biomedical informatics, and data science applications to research centers and healthcare organizations nationally and abroad. With experts in biomedical science, software engineering, and program management, we focus on developing and applying research tools and techniques to empower decision-making and accelerate research discoveries. We work with some of the top research organizations and facilities in the country including multiple institutes at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
• 401K match up to 5%
• Educational Benefits for Career Growth
• Employee Referral Bonus
• Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Healthcare (FSA)
  • Parking Reimbursement Account (PRK)
  • Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP)
  • Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN)

Axle is seeking a highly motivated Assay Technologist to join the Automated Cell Technologies section within the NCATS Research Services Core at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This role focuses on the development, optimization, and validation of stem cell–based and other cell-based assays to support translational research and high-throughput screening initiatives. The ideal candidate will bring strong expertise in human iPSC culture, cellular differentiation workflows, and phenotypic assay development within a collaborative, technology-driven research environment.

Maintain and expand human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and other cell lines under defined culture conditions.

Develop and optimize reproducible differentiation and expansion workflows across multiple cell lineages.

Scale culture and differentiation protocols across various formats (e.g., flasks and multi‑well plates).

Optimize extracellular matrix conditions and culture parameters to enhance cell viability, consistency, and maturation.

Design, execute, and validate cell‑based assays to assess differentiation status and functional endpoints.

Perform immunocytochemistry and other phenotypic analyses to confirm marker expression and cellular characteristics.

Evaluate assay reproducibility, robustness, and scalability.

Optimize cryopreservation, thawing, and recovery workflows.

Support development and validation of automated workflows for scalable cell‑based assays.

Collaborate with high‑throughput screening and automation teams to improve process efficiency.

Execute non‑routine experiments and develop novel methodologies to support emerging research needs.

Maintain detailed laboratory records using electronic laboratory notebook (ELN) systems.

Adhere to NIH laboratory safety standards, including BSL‑2 requirements.

Ensure accurate documentation of experimental outcomes and protocol improvements.

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Toxicology, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline.

Hands‑on experience in iPSC culture and differentiation.

Demonstrated experience in cell‑based assay development and validation.

Experience with immunocytochemistry and phenotypic analysis.

Strong troubleshooting and process optimization skills.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Experience supporting high‑throughput screening or automated laboratory workflows.

Familiarity with high‑content imaging systems.

Experience working in collaborative, multidisciplinary research environments.

Disclaimer: The above description is meant to illustrate the general nature of work and level of effort being performed by individuals assigned to this position or job description. This is not restricted as a complete list of all skills, responsibilities, duties, and/or assignments required. Individuals may be required to perform duties outside of their position, job description or responsibilities as needed.

The diversity of Axle’s employees is a tremendous asset. We are firmly committed to providing equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and will not tolerate any illegal…