FL68: Research Associate, Product Development

To become a Research Associate at Flagship Labs 68, candidates should hold a BA or BS in life sciences, biology, or a related field and ideally possess 1-2 years of relevant in vitro experience, whether from academia or industry. Prior hands-on experience with iPSC culture and directed differentiations, alongside proficiency in molecular and cell biology assays, is particularly valuable.

The primary responsibilities of a Research Associate at Flagship Labs 68 involve supporting the Drug Substance and Drug Product development teams by maintaining iPSC seed trains, performing directed differentiations, and conducting cell-based and molecular assays as needed. Additionally, the role includes maintaining a detailed electronic lab notebook, writing experimental protocols, and presenting findings to the scientific team.

A Research Associate at Flagship Labs 68 can expect a dynamic and entrepreneurial work environment that values collaboration and innovation. The pace is fast, and adaptability is essential, as you'll engage with diverse teams and contribute to groundbreaking cell therapy research.

Yes, Flagship Labs 68 encourages professional growth and development. Research Associates have the opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals and contribute significantly to pre-clinical studies, positioning themselves for advancement within the organization as they gain experience and expertise.

Research Associates at Flagship Labs 68 should be prepared for a flexible work schedule that may include some weekend availability. This flexibility allows the team to meet research demands and ensure that experimental timelines are adhered to.

When asked about maintaining iPSC cultures, it's essential to express your methodical approach to culturing, ensuring sterile techniques, monitoring cell health, and adjusting conditions based on cell behavior. Mention any specific techniques or protocols you're familiar with.

Describe your hands-on experience with directed differentiations during your previous roles. Highlight specific techniques you utilized, how you optimized protocols, and any challenges you overcame to demonstrate your practical knowledge and problem-solving skills.

Be prepared to discuss specific assays you’ve performed, such as ELISAs, flow cytometry, or qRT-PCR. Highlight your understanding of the procedures, the purpose of each assay in a research context, and any relevant outcomes you’ve achieved through these methods.

Emphasize the importance of maintaining an accurate and detailed electronic lab notebook for reproducibility and compliance. Discuss your routine for daily entries, including documentation of experimental procedures, results, and reflections on unexpected outcomes.

Share a specific example where teamwork led to a successful outcome. Highlight your role in communication, problem-solving, and how you used your skills to complement the strengths of your teammates.

Provide an example of a significant challenge you faced, explaining the steps you took to analyze the problem, consult with colleagues, and implement a solution. This demonstrates your resilience and ability to adapt in a dynamic environment.

Discuss your strategies for effective time management, including how you assess the urgency and importance of tasks, communicate with your team, and adjust priorities based on project needs. This showcases your organizational skills and adaptability.

Express your passion for biotechnology, particularly cell therapy, and how the potential to make a difference in human health drives your work. Share any personal stories or experiences that have shaped your interest in this field.

Talk about your attitude toward receiving constructive criticism—emphasize openness and how you view feedback as an opportunity for growth. Provide examples of how you’ve incorporated feedback into your work to improve outcomes.

Share your insights on emerging trends in cell therapy, supporting your points with research examples. This demonstrates your familiarity with the field and your forward-thinking mindset, qualities that are important at Flagship Labs 68.