Scientist I

Job Title: Scientist I Job Description
The Scientist I will play a key role in internal research efforts focused on cell culture bioprocessing. Based in Grand Island, this position is responsible for planning and conducting studies to develop novel cell culture media formulations and to optimize cell culture processes. The role is part of a BioProduction R&D team that collaborates across functions to develop products and improve processes for the biopharmaceutical industry, with an emphasis on understanding how cell culture conditions impact metabolism and recombinant protein production. The Scientist I will contribute to the manufacture of recombinant therapeutics and support gene therapy and cell therapy applications, while also troubleshooting and enhancing existing products.
Responsibilities
- Plan, execute, and document experimental studies related to cell culture media development and process optimization.
- Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and generate clear technical reports and summaries for design and development activities.
- Develop, refine, and maintain laboratory protocols to support cell culture media formulation and application data generation.
- Collaborate closely with other research scientists and cross-functional partners to drive innovation in bioprocessing workflows.
- Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges associated with research and development projects.
- Investigate and develop new methods and technologies to improve development workflows and enhance process efficiency.
- Maintain accurate and detailed entries in an electronic lab notebook to ensure data integrity and traceability.
- Interact effectively with internal departments to coordinate project activities and share research findings.
- Work independently under general direction, managing time and priorities to meet project deadlines.
- Promote and follow safety protocols in the laboratory, adhering to all applicable standards and guidelines.
- Demonstrate flexibility with working hours and be available for occasional weekend work as project needs arise.
Essential Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Biochemical Engineering, Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, Chemical or Biological Engineering, or a related field.
- At least 1 year of experience in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline.
- Expertise in small-scale mammalian cell culture using various cell lines such as CHO, T cells, HEK293, Vero, and MDCK.
- Knowledge of bioprocessing workflows, including protein production, vaccine development, and cell therapy applications.
- Proficiency in data analysis, with strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills to convey scientific concepts and results clearly.
- Effective organizational skills to manage multiple experiments, protocols, and documentation requirements.
- Familiarity with small-scale bioreactors and related laboratory equipment used in cell culture bioprocessing.
- Experience with statistical design of experiments (DoE) and related software tools.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Background in molecular biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or related laboratory sciences.
- Experience working within laboratory environments that follow GMP or similar quality standards.
- Ability to collaborate in a diverse, highly skilled cross-functional team environment.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective working relationships across departments.
- Comfort with analytical techniques and methods relevant to cell culture and bioprocessing.
- Demonstrated initiative in investigating and implementing new methods and technologies to improve workflows.
Work Environment
This role is based in a laboratory environment in Grand Island, working Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with occasional weekend availability required depending on project needs. The Scientist I will work with small-scale mammalian cell culture systems, bioreactors, and a variety of related laboratory equipment and analytical tools. The environment emphasizes rigorous safety practices, adherence to laboratory standards, and accurate electronic documentation of all experimental work. Team members collaborate closely with other scientists and internal departments in a professional, research-focused setting that supports innovation in bioprocess development.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Grand Island, NY.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $30.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & vision
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
Short and long-term disability
Health Spending Account (HSA)
Transportation benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Grand Island, NY.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Oct 26, 2026.
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Grand Island,NY. About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

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