Assay Technologist / Research Associate

Axle•Rockville, MD

8d•$85,000 - $95,000

About The Position

Axle is seeking a motivated Assay Technologist / Research Associate to join the Automated Cell Technologies section within the NCATS Research Services Core at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This position will support the development, optimization, and execution of stem cell–based and other cell-based assays for translational research and high-throughput screening initiatives. The successful candidate will contribute hands-on laboratory expertise in human iPSC culture, cellular differentiation, and phenotypic assay workflows within a collaborative research environment.

Requirements

Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture (iPSC experience preferred)
Experience performing cell-based assays and standard molecular/cellular biology techniques
Experience with immunocytochemistry or related staining techniques
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Good written and verbal communication skills

Nice To Haves

Experience with iPSC differentiation workflows
Exposure to high-throughput screening or automated laboratory systems
Familiarity with high-content imaging platforms
Experience working in a collaborative research or core facility environment

Responsibilities

Maintain and expand human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and other mammalian cell lines under defined culture conditions
Perform established differentiation protocols and assist in optimizing workflows across multiple cell lineages
Scale culture and differentiation procedures across various formats (e.g., flasks and multi-well plates)
Monitor cell health, viability, and morphology; document culture performance
Execute cell-based assays to assess differentiation status and functional endpoints
Perform immunocytochemistry and other phenotypic analyses following established protocols
Collect, analyze, and summarize experimental data
Assist in assay qualification activities, including reproducibility and robustness testing
Support cryopreservation, thawing, and cell recovery workflows
Assist in implementation and routine operation of automated workflows for scalable cell-based assays
Work collaboratively with automation and screening teams to improve workflow efficiency
Contribute to troubleshooting experiments and process optimization under supervision
Maintain accurate laboratory records using electronic laboratory notebook (ELN) systems
Follow NIH laboratory safety standards, including BSL-2 requirements
Ensure proper documentation of experimental procedures and results