Aptask Global Workforce (AGW) is seeking a Scientist - Cell Biology and Assay Development for an Onsite position with a Global Biotechnology Company located in Thousand Oaks, CA. This is a 12+ month contract opportunity. Our client is seeking a motivated Scientist to support emerging discovery programs. This hands-on role will establish cell lines and fit-for-purpose cellular assays, then apply these assays to characterize compounds and advance mechanistic understanding. The successful candidate will be an independent, reliable experimental scientist with strong mammalian cell culture, cell-engineering, and assay-development expertise, working closely with a cross-functional team spanning biology, chemistry, and protein science.

Responsibilities:

Culture, maintain, and manipulate mammalian cell lines using rigorous cell-culture practices Generate and characterize engineered cell lines using transfection, viral transduction, genome editing, and stable-cell-line selection Develop, optimize, and execute plate-based cell assays for compound screening, hit validation, target engagement, protein modulation, mechanism of action, and cellular health Apply appropriate assay formats, including luminescence-based reporter assays, complementation assays, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence/imaging, western blotting, qPCR, and other fit-for-purpose cellular methods Support imaging-based experiments and quantitative image analysis when needed Plan experiments independently, troubleshoot technical issues, maintain detailed records, analyze data, and communicate results clearly to the broader project team Contribute to the evaluation and prioritization of compounds across multiple early-discovery programs

Requirements:

PhD in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, chemical biology, or a related discipline; OR MS degree in a related discipline with 3-4 years of relevant industry or academic research experience Strong hands-on experience generating, maintaining and characterizing engineered/stable mammalian cell models Hands-on experience with high-throughput/high-content fluorescence imaging, including Opera/Opera Phenix or comparable platforms, assay setup, image acquisition and quantitative image analysis Strong experience with confocal microscopy, fluorescence-based cellular assays, experimental troubleshooting and quantitative data analysis Desired skills: Recent, hands-on mammalian cell culture experience Demonstrated experience with cell engineering, including transient transfection, lentiviral transduction, and generation of stable cell lines Experience developing and running plate-based cellular assays Experience with protein-degradation, target-engagement, or mechanism-of-action studies Experience with fluorescence or high-content imaging, image analysis, flow cytometry, antibody staining, and immunofluorescence Familiarity with western blotting, qPCR, reporter assays, and high-throughput or medium-throughput compound testing Ability to independently prioritize day-to-day experimental work, generate high-quality data, and troubleshoot without frequent supervision Strong written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment Pay range: up to $42.16 per hour Only candidates available and ready to work directly as Aptask Global Workforce (AGW) employees will be considered for this position. If you have the described qualifications and are interested in this exciting opportunity, apply today! Aptask Global Workforce (AGW) ApTask Global Workforce (AGW) is a certified Minority and Veteran workforce solutions company. AGW delivers operational, clinical, lab and professional talent with a strong focus on healthcare and life sciences. The company supports clients with reliable staffing, program expertise and a commitment to quality, speed and consistent delivery. Benefits of working with ApTask Global Workforce include: Medical Dental Vision Sick Pay (for applicable states/municipalities) Our team stays close to the process and is here to guide you every step of the way. To learn more, please visit our website ApTask Global Workforce is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Candidates will receive consideration without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.