Assay Technologist / Research Associate

(ID: 2026-1657)

Axle is a bioscience and information technology company that offers advancements in translational research, biomedical informatics, and data science applications to research centers and healthcare organizations nationally and abroad. With experts in biomedical science, software engineering, and program management, we focus on developing and applying research tools and techniques to empower decision-making and accelerate research discoveries. We work with some of the top research organizations and facilities in the country including multiple institutes at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

 

Benefits We Offer:

• 100% Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage for Employees
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
• 401K match up to 5%
• Educational Benefits for Career Growth
• Employee Referral Bonus
• Flexible Spending Accounts:
  • Healthcare (FSA)
  • Parking Reimbursement Account (PRK)
  • Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP)
  • Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN)

 

About the Role

Axle is seeking a motivated Assay Technologist / Research Associate to join the Automated Cell Technologies section within the NCATS Research Services Core at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This position will support the development, optimization, and execution of stem cell–based and other cell-based assays for translational research and high-throughput screening initiatives. The successful candidate will contribute hands-on laboratory expertise in human iPSC culture, cellular differentiation, and phenotypic assay workflows within a collaborative research environment.

 

Key Responsibilities

Cell Culture & Differentiation

• Maintain and expand human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and other mammalian cell lines under defined culture conditions
• Perform established differentiation protocols and assist in optimizing workflows across multiple cell lineages
• Scale culture and differentiation procedures across various formats (e.g., flasks and multi-well plates)
• Monitor cell health, viability, and morphology; document culture performance

 

Assay Execution & Support

• Execute cell-based assays to assess differentiation status and functional endpoints
• Perform immunocytochemistry and other phenotypic analyses following established protocols
• Collect, analyze, and summarize experimental data
• Assist in assay qualification activities, including reproducibility and robustness testing
• Support cryopreservation, thawing, and cell recovery workflows

 

Automation & Process Support

• Assist in implementation and routine operation of automated workflows for scalable cell-based assays
• Work collaboratively with automation and screening teams to improve workflow efficiency
• Contribute to troubleshooting experiments and process optimization under supervision

 

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate laboratory records using electronic laboratory notebook (ELN) systems
• Follow NIH laboratory safety standards, including BSL-2 requirements
• Ensure proper documentation of experimental procedures and results

 

Required Qualifications

For Bachelor’s Level:

• B.S. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Toxicology, or a related life sciences field
• 5+ years of relevant laboratory experience (academic or industry)

 

For Master’s Level:

• M.S. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Toxicology, or a related scientific discipline
• 2+ years of relevant laboratory experience

 

Required Skills & Experience:

• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture (iPSC experience preferred)
• Experience performing cell-based assays and standard molecular/cellular biology techniques
• Experience with immunocytochemistry or related staining techniques
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Good