Cell & Molecular Biologist - Investigator II

Cognizance Technologies, LLC | Full time

Silver Spring, United States | Posted on 09/01/2026

The Molecular/Cell Biologist is a highly motivated scientist with strong specialization in cell and molecular techniques and extensive experience inrecombinant protein expression and purification. This position supports ongoing biological research within a dynamic, multi-functional laboratory environment,including projects aimed at identifying new therapeutic approaches for prostate cancer. The role involves independently performing experiments and assays,developing and validating molecular biology and cell-based methods, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to advance research objectives.

Cell Culture and Experimental Support

• Culture cells used for studies.
• Independently perform experiments and assays and analyze data under the direction of the group lead.
• Critically think aboutthe experiment/assay being performed to fully understand the study objective.

• Independently troubleshoot assays.
• Work with the group leadto develop and validate project-specific methods.
• Plan, develop, operate,record, collaborate, and report all steps of method development, validation,and/or updated processes or platforms for both molecular biology and gene cloning, as well as cell-based model systems.
• Troubleshoot method and instrumentation problems; be proactive in solving technical problems.

• Maintain accurate records in the study notebook according to established SOPs.
• In collaboration withthe group lead and collaborative team members, interpret molecular tests and communicate results.

• Collaborate withcross-functional teams to advance compound synthesis, docking studies, and protein crystallization.
• Mentor junior researchers and students in molecular biology techniques and involve them inongoing projects.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Cloning, mutagenesis,recombinant protein expression, DNA/RNA extraction, and gel electrophoresis.
• Protein purification,including batch purification and Fast Protein Liquid Chromatography (FPLC).
• RNAi/lentiviral-mediated gene knockdown and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing.
• PCR, quantitative(real-time) RT-PCR, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), ubiquitinationassays, immunoprecipitation, and pull-down assays.
• SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, and ELISA.

• Mammalian cell culture,transfection, cell viability and toxicity assays, and luciferase assays.
• Confocal microscopy,immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, colocalization assays, and BiFCassays.
• Flow cytometry,caspase-3 assays, transformation assays, and sub-cellular fractionation assays.

• Dynamic Light Scattering(DLS), Differential Scanning Fluorimetry (DSF), and UV/vis spectroscopy.
• RNA-seq analysis and DNA sequencing.
• Antimicrobial susceptibility testing, fermentation, and bioprocessing.

• Proficiency with
  
  Graph
  
  Pad, ImageJ/Fiji, Akta-Unicorn (FPLC), BD FACS Diva, Flow Jo, Kalliope(DLS), CFX Maestro, MS Excel, and Origin.

• Ability to troubleshoot,optimize, and validate experiments without supervision.
• Strong computer,scientific, and organizational skills; previous experience with any LIMS.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with self-motivation, adaptability, and apositive attitude.
• Ability to learn new techniques, perform multiple tasks simultaneously, keep accurate records,follow instructions, and comply with division/center policies.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in molecular biology or a related field.
• Strong technical and scientific background in current molecular biology methods and eukaryotic invitro cell model systems.
• More than 5 years of technical experience (after graduation) in research labs.
• Training and experience in recombinant DNA technology and gene cloning, cell culture-based in vitrotest systems, and protein characterization.
• Authorization to work inthe United States without restriction or visa sponsorship.

Preferred Expertise

• Cell culture(suspensions, monolayers, 2D and 3D).
• Recombinant DNA technology and gene cloning (e.g., construction of cDNA-based expression vectors).
• Gel electrophoresis and restriction endonuclease digestion.
• Cell culture-based invitro test systems for cDNA and protein expression.
• Next generation sequencing.
• Protein/enzyme extraction (e.g., preparing microsomal fractions).
• Protein/enzyme characterization and functional assessment (e.g., Western and functional activity assays).
• Data analyses (e.g.,kinetic parameters, statistics, bioinformatics).

• PPO/HMO Health Plan (includes medical, dental, and vision)