Cell Culture Process Development Co-Op - Spring 2026

At Johnson & Johnson, we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build a world where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured, where treatments are smarter and less invasive, and solutions are personal. Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity. Learn more at https://www.jnj.com

Job Function:

Career Programs

Job Sub Function:

Non-LDP Intern/Co-Op

Job Category:

Career Program

All Job Posting Locations:

Malvern, Pennsylvania, United States of America

Job Description:

Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine – Spring 2026 R&D Co-Op Opportunities

Location: Malvern, PA
Duration: January 2026 – June 2026

Research & Development Co-op Overview:

J&J R&D encompasses the development of sophisticated materials, process improvements, risk management and mechanical testing through the development process across all sectors including Pharmaceutical, Medical Device, Consumer and Corporate/Enterprise.

We offer a fast-paced cross-functional, technologically advanced, corporate environment, passionate about developing individual engineering and scientific skills. You will have the opportunity to learn about anatomy, disease states, deformities and the surgical procedure/products used to address these conditions.

Life as an R&D Co-Op:

The R&D Co-Op program provides each student with real-life hands-on experience, coaching and mentoring, networking opportunities, as well as the opportunity to meet people from various schools throughout the country. Each Co-Op will be assigned to a single function with a specific project for the 6-month term.

The typical Co-op term is from Jan 2026– Jun 2026.

Key Responsibilities:

Our R&D Co-op program provides a unique opportunity to work on real projects involving protein process development, cell culture, bioreactor operation, and process optimization. The focus areas include upstream and downstream bioprocessing, process control, and analytical data interpretation. You will collaborate with internal teams and external partners, participate in experimental design, and contribute to the development of best practices in bioprocessing. These roles' responsibilities include:

• Protein Process Development: Support bioreactor experiments, optimize antifoam and foam sensor practices, and analyze process variables affecting protein production.
• Cell Culture & Upstream Processing: Assist in the development and optimization of cell culture processes, including media formulation, bioreactor operation, and process monitoring.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Use statistical tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab) to analyze experimental results, visualize data, and support decision-making.
• Experimental Planning: Contribute to designing experiments to fill knowledge gaps and improve process robustness.
• Technical Documentation: Maintain detailed lab notebooks and technical reports in accordance with company guidelines.
• Collaboration & Communication: Participate in team meetings, technical discussions, and project updates with internal and external stakeholders.
• Additional Support: Provide general project assistance as needed to meet project goals.

Qualifications

Education:

• Pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree in Biological Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Microbiology, or related fields.
• Actively enrolled at an accredited university for the duration of the co-op.
• Minimum GPA of 2.8.
• Completion of at least the undergraduate freshman year; Juniors and Seniors preferred.

Experience and Skills:

Required:

• Strong analytical and quantitative skills.
• Laboratory experience in cell culture, bioprocessing, or related areas.
• Familiarity with experimental design, data analysis, and statistical tools.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
• Legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
• Proven leade