Research Associate - II*

Job ID: 24-01956

The Analytical Development, Analytical Testing and Logistics team at Kite Pharma is recruiting a Research Associate, to join our team. This individual will report to the Manager of Analytical Logistics, and will be responsible for management of storing materials, in-process samples, and final products. This individual will also receive material from various departments and input proper documentation into laboratory data management systems. In addition, this individual will conduct some routine characterization testing, using various laboratory methods (e.g., ELISA, Molecular Biology)

Responsibilities and Duties

• Cryopreserve cell therapy samples from clinical trials and development programs
• Inventory samples and retrieve samples for analytical testing
• Work with different departments to create sample processing and sampling requirements
• Support sample management for routine in-process testing
• Perform data documentation to capture sample processing procedure and sample parameters
• Perform cell counting/viability data analysis for cell samples
• Provide training to team members on sample and inventory management systems
• Draft/revise SOPs and work instructions for sample management activities
• Project lead for improvement projects within the team
• Conduct some laboratory testing (e.g., ELISA, Molecular Biology)
• Other responsibilities, as assigned
• Occasional weekend support, will be required

Basic Qualifications:
Bachelor's Degree and 0+ years of experience OR
Associate Degree and 2+ years of experience OR
High School Degree and 5+ years of experience

Preferred Qualifications:
• Proficiency with aseptic technique
• Prior biological sample management experience, is a plus
• Knowledge of general lab assays is required (e.g., Cell culture, ELISA, Flow Cytometry, Molecular Biology), but experience is preferred
• Ability to follow laboratory procedures, with attention to detail
• Basic to intermediate understanding of sample collection, processing protocols, and shipping condition requirements
• Experience with maintaining inventory, across multiple, critical equipment temperature-controlled units
• Understanding of GxP requirements
• Ability to think critically, and demonstrated troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Meaningful organizational and record-keeping skills
• Comfortable in an exciting environment, and able to adjust workload based upon changing priorities
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and willing to accept temporary responsibilities outside of initial job description
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills
• Previous customer service experience, is a plus
• Experience with Microsoft Word and Excel is essential, and knowledge in statistical programs (e.g., JMP) and languages (e.g., R and Python), is a plus