Cell Line Development Scientist

Axle•Gaithersburg, MD

18h•Onsite

About The Position

Axle is seeking a Cell Line Development Scientist to support the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The role supports planning and execution of laboratory research and focuses on developing stable cell lines for vaccine and therapeutic protein candidates, including monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and virus-like particles. Work spans the cell line development process from plasmid preparation and transfection through clone selection, fed-batch analysis, and stability studies. The position also involves small-scale process development, laboratory equipment support, documentation, and coordination with project leads. The scientist independently conducts experiments and analyzes data; supports development and optimization of cell line platforms; prepares plasmid DNA and stable pools; and performs transient protein production. The role includes maintaining and troubleshooting core laboratory equipment, particularly cell counters, and training team members in its use. The scientist documents work for regulatory filings, prepares and reviews SOPs and technical reports, communicates research findings through presentations and publications, coordinates project timelines, and mentors junior staff. A Master of Science degree is required.

Requirements

Master of Science degree in Biological Science is required.
Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences is listed.
Field of study: Biochemical Sciences.
Experience with monoclonal antibody and/or vaccine production.
Knowledge of cell line engineering technologies, including cell counting, high-throughput transfection, single-cell cloning, and flow cytometry.
Aseptic technique and mammalian cell culture skills.
Ability to prepare technical reports, standard operating procedures, and data presentations.
Broad knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theory.

Responsibilities

Contribute to development of stable cell lines for vaccine and therapeutic protein candidates, including monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and virus-like particles.
Independently conduct cell line development steps, including transfection, pool generation, single-cell cloning, clone expansion, fed-batch analysis, and clone stability studies.
Participate in cell line development platform design, optimization, and cycle-time reduction studies, including clone selection, expansion, ranking, and characterization.
Generate stable pools and perform transient protein production to provide reagent-grade material.
Plan and execute research experiments within the laboratory’s research program.
Prepare plasmid DNA using molecular cloning techniques, including PCR, restriction digestion, and bacterial culture.
Use automated platforms for clone selection and screening.
Support laboratory staff on research projects and techniques.
Conduct small-scale process development studies using tissue culture plates, shake flasks, and small-scale bioreactors.
Maintain and track core laboratory equipment, including ViCell BLU cell counters; manage supplies and routine data backup.
Train team members on cell counter use, reagent pack replacement and disposal, data retrieval, and other laboratory techniques.
Troubleshoot cell counters in response to team requests, perform monthly QC and weekly maintenance, arrange service visits, and coordinate with the vendor.
Assist in maintaining adequate laboratory space and facilities for ongoing and planned studies.
Write and review SOPs for cell line development processes and instrumentation.
Evaluate, analyze, and interpret research data; communicate results and methods in reports, presentations, and manuscripts.
Independently complete experiments and analyze data.
Write and review technical reports documenting process development studies and stable cell line generation.
Maintain complete laboratory documentation, including a detailed, current laboratory notebook, to support regulatory filings.
Contribute results and studies for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Coordinate with junior staff to modify research protocols and develop experimental plans with team members.
Present research at local or national scientific meetings and symposia, including in poster form.
Provide interpretation of results, guidance, and scientific support to the management team.
Coordinate projects with the project lead and Federal Task Leader; plan experiments to meet timelines, promptly communicate issues or delays, and help identify solutions.
Maintain the cell line development master sheet, regularly communicate progress to the project lead, present work to the team, and participate in project meetings.
Mentor junior-level scientists and train staff in proper equipment use and laboratory techniques.
Assist with basic laboratory experiments and procedures; prepare, organize, and maintain laboratory samples, supplies, and equipment; and learn new laboratory techniques and procedures.
Provide technical experience to assist in studying basic principles of plant and animal life.