Research Associate II for our Core Technologies Department

Do you want to be part of an inclusive team that works to develop innovative therapies for patients? Every day, we are driven to develop and deliver innovative and effective new medicines to patients and physicians. If you want to be part of this exciting work, you belong at Astellas!

Astellas Pharma Inc. is a pharmaceutical company conducting business in more than 70 countries around the world. We are committed to turning innovative science into medical solutions that bring value and hope to patients and their families. Keeping our focus on addressing unmet medical needs and conducting our business with ethics and integrity enables us to improve the health of people throughout the world. For more information on Astellas, please visit our website at www.astellas.com.

Universal Cells, an affiliate of Astellas located in Seattle, WA, is focused on the development and commercialization of stem cell and regenerative medicine therapies. We conduct clinical-grade gene editing of stem cells to produce cells that avoid rejection and can be used in allogeneic cell therapy treatments to treat all patients that need them.

OUR GOAL - ONE CELL FOR EVERYONE

NO IMMUNE SUPPRESSION. NO DONOR MATCHING. NO REJECTION.

We are a dynamic team of research and scientific professionals who are passionate about turning science and innovation into medical solutions. Through our diversity, scientific knowledge, professional rigor and focus on innovation, we are merging our technology with the Astellas drug development expertise to unlock cures to many therapies. Join our team of committed, enthusiastic professionals devoted to making the most effective, life-saving cell therapy products in the world.

Universal Cells (UCI) is announcing a Research Associate II for our Core Technologies Department

We are seeking a highly capable, self-motivated Research Associate II for our Core Technologies Department . This individual will contribute to the molecular engineering for our gene edited Universal Donor Cells with activities focused on performing custom TaqMan based PCR assays. They will work as a key member on a fast-paced team to run molecular assays to characterize our proprietary Universal Donor Cells.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Performs standard molecular biology techniques including PCR, primer design, molecular cloning, and Sanger sequencing as needed.

  • Shows willingness to learn new protocols, relevant equipment, and related software.

  • Maintains accurate records and assists other team members with recording and compiling experimental data in a timely manner.

  • Self-motivated with good time management skills.

  • Team player; collaborating effectively with various team members and other departments.

  • Performs other duties as assigned or special projects as needed.

  • Contributes to reagent and sample organization and inventory management systems

  • Maintains accurate records according to Good Documentation Practices and compiles experimental data in a timely manner. Documents qualified activities according to Universal Cells Quality Assurance guidelines.

  • Summarizes and presents data in both oral and written formats.

  • Performs other duties as assigned or special projects as needed.

Required Qualifications:

  • BS Degree with 2+ years / MS Degree with 0-2 years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience.

  • 1 year experience utilizing molecular biology techniques such as PCR and troubleshooting qPCR-based assays

  • Strong organizational, time management skills, and the ability to maintain accurate and up-to-date records.

  • Ability to work effectively both independently and with other team members.

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

  • Strong work ethic with a passion to learn and work in a fast-paced, dynamic and diverse work environment.

  • Ability to troubleshoot and think critically, with careful attention to detail

Note: Flexibility to work a shifted Sunday - Thursday schedule is required. This is an office based position.

Preferred

  • Experience performing molecular assays within a Quality Assurance framework

  • Experience with Taqman based PCR assays

  • Experience performing high throughput, quick turnaround qPCR

  • Experience with liquid handling robots

Salary Range:

  • $64500-$86,000 NOTE: Final salary could be more or less, based on experience)

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance

  • Generous Paid Time Off options, including Vacation, Sick time, plus national holidays including Heritage Days, and Summer and Winter Breaks

  • 401(k) match and annual company contribution

  • Company paid life insurance

  • Annual Corporate Bonus and Quarterly Sales Incentive for eligible positions

  • Long Term Incentive Plan for eligible positions

  • Referral bonus program

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability.

LI-TR1

Category Technical Operations

Astellas is committed to equality of opportunity in all aspects of employment.

EOE including Disability/Protected Veterans