Research Associate - Biotech jobs in Virginia Beach, VA

LifeNet Health is searching for talented individuals who will embrace our mission of saving lives, restoring health, and giving hope.

LifeNet Health, headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is the largest nonprofit organ procurement organization (“OPO”) and tissue processor in the United States, as well as a leading innovator in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Our goal is to improve the quality of human life through the provision of organs, tissues and cells for transplantation; to provide innovation in the fields of bio-implants, regenerative medicine and research; and, to serve the community with educational and support services that enhance the donation process. LifeNet Health has over 1200 employees and has a growing global presence.

How you will contribute to LifeNet Health’s success:

As the Research Associate, you will participate in the planning, executing, documenting, and reporting of research and validation efforts. Performs cell isolation and cell culture procedures and conducts complex testing with cell or tissue samples. Develops, validates, and runs cell-based assays in support of new product advancement. Maintains essential laboratory records and team-specific Research and Development processing consumable inventories. Supports training on test methods, assays, processing procedures, and equipment/instrument operations.

What you’ll do:

• Conducts experiments independently to support new products and technology development, including associated process/equipment development and optimization in compliance with LifeNet policy, LifeNet procedures, and Good Laboratory Practices
• Makes detailed observations, documents, analyzes, and summarizes collected data into effective technical reports under minimal supervision.
• Develops protocols and experimental designs with minimal supervision required to support assigned research, including new graft and equipment development, as well as product development, manufacturing, and validation initiatives. Supports “trouble-shooting” activities for ongoing experimental procedures including graft production and assays.
• Provides assistance in the development of new assays, test methods, and protocols pertaining to research objectives as needed. Assists in the development, writing, and modification of SOPs and forms, and test method validation.
• Conducts appropriate literature reviews, when necessary, to begin or support research projects and reports. Provides timely and effective communication (written and oral) of procedures, observations, and results.
• Reviews and maintains team-specific research and Research and Development processing consumable inventories assisting in product acquisitions from internal and external vendors according to established procedures.
• Supports establishment of essential training requirements related to processes and equipment and provides effective training of staff on the operation of equipment and tools with advanced complexity. All other duties as assigned.

What you’ll bring (Minimum Requirements):

• Bachelor’s Degree in Life Sciences or related field; (Master’s Degree in Life Sciences or related field, preferred)
• 3 years’ related work experience in Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Life Sciences, or related field

These would be nice too (Knowledge Skills and Abilities):

• Demonstrated proficiency in basic laboratory skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office

Why work at LifeNet Health?

We have a fierce drive for our mission of Saving Lives, Restoring Health, and Giving Hope. You won’t find another company with a culture as strong as ours.

• 403(b) and Pension Plan
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Corporate sponsored events
• Work-life balance with generous paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Personal career and skill development opportunities
• Wellness Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Dedicated and passionate co-workers

We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer EOE/M/F/Disability/Vet. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.