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Cell Line Development Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Cell Line Development Associate information

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$29K

$53.4K

$81K

How much do cell line development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for cell line development associate in the United States is $53,418.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cell line development associate do?

A Cell Line Development Associate is responsible for generating and characterizing cell lines used in research or biomanufacturing, particularly for producing therapeutic proteins or biologics. They perform tasks such as transfecting cells, selecting stable clones, expanding cultures, and analyzing cell growth and productivity. Their work ensures the creation of robust, high-quality cell lines that meet regulatory and production standards. This role is crucial in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and research settings.

What are some common challenges faced by cell line development associates during cell line generation projects?

Cell Line Development Associates often encounter challenges such as ensuring the stability and productivity of cloned cell lines, troubleshooting low expression levels, and minimizing contamination risks. Managing tight project timelines while maintaining rigorous documentation and quality standards can also be demanding. Additionally, adapting to evolving technology platforms and collaborating effectively with upstream and downstream teams are key aspects of the role. Overcoming these obstacles requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication within multidisciplinary project groups.

What is the difference between Cell Line Development Associate vs Research Associate?

AspectCell Line Development AssociateResearch Associate
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in biology, biotechnology, or related field; laboratory skillsBachelor's or master's degree in a scientific discipline; laboratory experience
Work EnvironmentBiotech or pharmaceutical labs focused on cell line creation and developmentResearch labs across various scientific fields, including biology and chemistry
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech companies, pharmaceutical firms, contract research organizationsUniversities, research institutes, biotech and pharma companies

The main difference is that a Cell Line Development Associate specializes in creating and optimizing cell lines for bioproduction, while a Research Associate may work on broader research projects across multiple scientific areas. Both roles require laboratory skills and relevant degrees, but the Cell Line Development Associate focuses specifically on cell line processes within biotech and pharma industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cell line development associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cell Line Development Associate, you need a background in cell biology, molecular biology, or related fields, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in life sciences. Familiarity with cell culture techniques, gene editing tools (like CRISPR), and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is important. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork set exceptional candidates apart. These competencies ensure robust, high-quality cell line generation critical for research and bioproduction success.
What cities are hiring for Cell Line Development Associate jobs? Cities with the most Cell Line Development Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cell Line Development jobs? The most popular types of Cell Line Development jobs are:
What states have the most Cell Line Development Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Cell Line Development Associate jobs include:

Associate Scientist - Cell Line Development

Elanco

Indianapolis, IN • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Elanco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

At Elanco (NYSE: ELAN) - it all starts with animals!

As a global leader in animal health, we are dedicated to innovation and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose - all to Go Beyond for Animals, Customers, Society and Our People.

At Elanco, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that diversity is the driving force behind innovation, creativity, and overall business success. Here, you'll be part of a company that values and champions new ways of thinking, work with dynamic individuals, and acquire new skills and experiences that will propel your career to new heights.

Making animals' lives better makes life better - join our team today!

Your Role: Senior Associate Scientist, Cell Line Development

As a Senior Associate Scientist, Cell Line Development, you will be a pivotal member of our Transitional and Early Development (TED) team, directly contributing to the advancement of Elanco's biotherapeutic and vaccine pipeline. You will leverage your deep expertise in mammalian cell culture, molecular biology, and biochemistry to develop and industrialize next-generation cell lines. This is a hands-on laboratory role where you will take ownership of projects, collaborate with a diverse group of scientists, and see your work translate from research to development, making a tangible impact on animal health.

Your Responsibilities:

  • Guide the development, optimization, and implementation of robust workflows for mammalian cell culture and high-performance cell line generation.
  • Take ownership of the end-to-end creation of stable and clonal cell lines for biotherapeutic and vaccine candidates, utilizing advanced platforms such as Beacon and VIPS.
  • Serve as a key technical matter expert on cell line development, providing critical scientific input and fostering seamless collaboration with Discovery, Upstream Process Development, and Analytical teams.
  • Manage the evaluation and implementation of new technologies and methodologies to enhance the speed, quality, and efficiency of our cell line development engine.
  • Ensure meticulous data integrity and knowledge transfer by authoring detailed technical protocols, analyzing complex datasets, and clearly presenting scientific findings to guide project progression.

What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications):

  • Education: Bachelor's Degree in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology) with at least 6 years of industry experience, OR a Master's degree with at least 3 years of industry experience.
  • Experience: Deep technical expertise in mammalian suspension cell culture (specifically CHO and 293 cells), including aseptic technique, media preparation, and cell banking.
  • Top Skills: Proven ability to independently troubleshoot complex technical issues, interpret complex data to influence project direction, and effectively manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

What will give you a competitive edge (preferred qualifications):

  • Demonstrable hands-on experience in the end-to-end development of stable cell lines, including transfection, single-cell cloning, and characterization of clonality and stability.
  • Proven project management experience with the ability to guide technical strategy and mentor junior scientists.
  • Hands-on experience with high-throughput cell line development platforms (e.g., Beacon, VIPS) and flow cytometry.
  • A strong understanding of upstream bioprocess techniques, including the use of shake flasks, ambr, and bench-scale bioreactors.
  • Familiarity with cGMP principles and the regulatory requirements for cell line development and characterization for IND/BLA submissions.

Additional Information:

  • Travel: Up to 10%
  • Location: Global Elanco Headquarters - Indianapolis, IN - Hybrid Work Environment

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown underrecognized groups are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Elanco we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive work environment. If you think you might be a good fit for a role but don't necessarily meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role or other roles!

Elanco Benefits and Perks: We offer a comprehensive benefits package focusing on financial, physical, and mental well-being while encouraging our employees to pursue our purpose! Some highlights include:

  • Multiple relocation packages
  • Two weeklong shutdowns (mid-summer and year-end) in the US (in addition to PTO)
  • 8-week parental leave
  • 9 Employee Resource Groups
  • Annual bonus offering
  • Flexible work arrangements
  • Up to 6% 401K matching

Elanco offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees that includes a company-matching 401(k); vacation benefits; eligibility for medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug benefits; flexible benefits (e.g., healthcare and/or dependent day care flexible spending accounts); life insurance and death benefits; certain time off and leave of absence benefits; and well-being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities). Of course, the compensation is subject to change and could be higher or lower than the range described above. Elanco reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion, and Elanco's compensation practices and guidelines will apply regarding the details of any promotion or transfer of Elanco employees.

Elanco is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.

Elanco is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status

Elanco may use automated tools, including AI, to support parts of our recruitment process, such as reviewing applications against jobrelated criteria and/or transferrable skills. These tools help ensure a consistent, structured evaluation, but they do not make hiring decisions. All decisions involve a human reviewer. For more information on how we handle personal data, please see our Elanco Workforce Privacy Notice.


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