Research Associate II, Stem Cell Lab

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Laboratory Animal Sciences Program (LASP) provides exceptional quality animal care and technical support services for laboratory and animal research performed at the National Cancer Institute at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research. LASP executes this mission by providing a broad spectrum of husbandry, veterinary, state-of-the-art technology, and pre-clinical scientific services. LASP also provides primary support to the NIH Standardized Organoid Modeling (SOM) Initiative to address the need for validated, scalable, and reproducible organoid-based Novel Alternative Methods (NAMs) in biomedical research. Our team provides technical infrastructure, operational integration, and specialized expertise to drive the development and optimization of organoid models of normal (non-cancerous) human tissues derived from a wide range of tissue types and donor sources. KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES The Research Associate II position in the Stem Cell Lab (iPSC) within the SOM Center will be responsible for: Independently performing human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) culture, maintenance, expansion, cryopreservation, and differentiation using established and evolving protocols to support organoid and disease modeling research. Designing, executing, troubleshooting, and optimizing complex cell-based assays, molecular and cellular biology techniques, and quality control procedures to ensure reproducibility and scientific rigor. Performing comprehensive characterization of iPSC lines and differentiated cell products using techniques such as flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry, qPCR, microscopy, and other molecular and cellular assays. Maintaining accurate laboratory records, analyzing and interpreting experimental data, preparing technical reports, and contributing to presentations, manuscripts, and SOP development. Managing laboratory operations including inventory, reagent preparation, equipment maintenance, and ensuring compliance with biosafety, quality, and laboratory standards. Training and mentoring junior laboratory personnel on stem cell culture techniques, laboratory best practices, and experimental procedures while contributing to a collaborative research environment. Working closely with multidisciplinary investigators to support the development, optimization, and implementation of standardized, scalable iPSC- and organoid-based preclinical models for the NIH Standardized Organoid Modeling (SOM) Initiative. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below: Possession of Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or four (4) years relevant experience in lieu of degree. Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency. In addition to the education requirement, a minimum of five (5) years of related experience. Demonstrated experience with mammalian cell culture, aseptic technique, and standard laboratory practices. Experience performing basic molecular and cellular biology techniques and maintaining accurate laboratory documentation. Must possess basic Microsoft Office skills. Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Developmental Biology, Stem Cell Biology, Regenerative Medicine, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related life science discipline. Demonstrated experience with human iPSC culture, reprogramming, differentiation, and quality control. Experience with organoid culture and/or 3D cell culture systems is highly desirable. Proficiency in mammalian cell culture, aseptic technique, and molecular and cellular biology methods including immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, qPCR, ELISA, Western blotting, and microscopy. Experience with assay development, experimental optimization, and troubleshooting. Familiarity with electronic laboratory notebooks, data analysis software, and Microsoft Office applications. Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects independently while maintaining meticulous documentation. Excellent written and verbal communication skills and demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment. JOB HAZARDS This position is subject to working with or has the potential for exposure to animals(s) and/or animal material(s). This position is subject to working with or has the potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations.