Job Summary

The Research Associate I plays an integral role within CRL’s gene therapy process development function by understanding and applying biological, bioprocess, laboratory, scientific, and mechanical principles, inputs and outputs, for all processes and handovers, in order to support experiments, methods, and tests for client studies within a research environment. 

This role will perform a range of routine and semi-routine scientific and laboratory process development tasks, some of which are moderately difficult, requiring judgment in resolving issues or making recommendations, with guidance as needed. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

•    Under guidance, apply and adhere to procedures, Quality, and basic Safety requirements. 
•    Assist and/or perform routine/semi-routine tasks: 
o    Basic Upstream Activities (e.g., assist with or prepare solutions, media aliquot and buffer preparation and autoclave materials for cell culture, staging of raw materials, seed train, bioreactor set up, fermentation monitoring and/or harvest). 
o    Basic Downstream Activities (e.g., assist with cell lysis, chromatography purification (FPLC systems (Akta)), centrifugation, Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF), and final formulation steps). 
•    Follow verbal and written instructions when assisting others and/or performing routine process development tasks, in alignment with the mock batch record, and under guidance. This includes:
o    Assisting in running chromatography techniques, preparing reagents, and performing pipetting. 
o    Assisting in preparing media, ensuring the proper handling, labeling, and storage. 
•    With guidance, use basic working documents and apply Good Documentation Practices.
•    Accurately weigh, measure, record, document data, and check work to avoid errors prior to submission. 
•    Identify, record, and report observed process development issues in real time. 
•    Follow procedures, safety guidelines, and manufacturing instructions when operating, preparing, cleaning, and maintaining equipment and instruments. 
•    Recognize common safety issues and report all incidents immediately.
•    Adhere to safe working practices and comply with site-based guidelines by applying: 
o    Proper aseptic, PPE, and gowning procedures. 
o    Proper preparation, disinfection, sterilization, and sanitation methods and processes for equipment, etc. 
o    The safe handling, transport, storage, and disposal of biological specimen, chemical, and hazardous materials.
o    Universal precautions with respect to OSHA guidelines. 
o    Appropriate organization, sanitizing, and stocking of the work area to avoid unsafe situations. 
•    Ensure 100% on time completion of training plan.
•    Be punctual and flexible with work schedule, tasks, etc. to support business demands. 
•    Perform other responsibilities as required. 

Job Qualifications

HS Diploma or equivalent with high grades in science courses and 2 years of related experience, or an A.S. with 1 year, or a B.S. in biology/life sciences, bioengineering, or related discipline with 0-1 years related experience, which may include prior laboratory experience in a technical role and/or within a bioprocessing, biopharmaceuticals, analytical, product development, and/or cGMP manufacturing biotech environment or other related industry, etc. 
Other:
•    Able to work in accordance with the Charles River Values. 
•    Able to work independently and be a team player, with a positive attitude, professional tone and demeanor, in a collaborative environment, completing work accurately and on time.
•    Willing to continuously learn and improve.
•    Strong attention to detail, able to recognize deviations, and possess good GDP skills.
•    Good analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. 
•    Good listening, clear written, and verbal communication skills. 
•    Knowledge of MS Word, Excel, Teams, database systems, etc.
•    Pass/maintain aseptic/PPE qualifications; work in a laboratory environment for at least 4 hours/day. 

Compensation Data

The pay range for this position is $26.00 – $28.00. Please note that salaries vary within the range based on factors including, but not limited to, experience, skills, education, certifications, and location.