1

Cell Scientist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cell Biologist

Charlottesville, VA ยท On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Cell Biologist - In Vitro Models and Assay Development Charlottesville, VA About Luna Labs Luna ... The Opportunity The Biotech Group is seeking a driven, creative, detail-oriented scientist to join ...

Senior Scientist

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Seeking a Senior Scientist with a background in life sciences research in advanced cell model, organoid, or organ-on-chip research environments, ideally in infectious disease research. New approach ...

Seeking a Senior Scientist with a background in life sciences research in advanced cell model, organoid, or organ-on-chip research environments, ideally in infectious disease research. New approach ...

Cell Biology Tutor

Charlottesville, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Cell Biology Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of cell ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

Cell Biology Tutor

Salem, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Cell Biology Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of cell ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

Cell Biology Tutor

Leesburg, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Cell Biology Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of cell ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

Cell Biology Tutor

Norfolk, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Cell Biology Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of cell ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

Cell Biology Tutor

Blacksburg, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Cell Biology Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of cell ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

Cell Biology Tutor

Fairfax, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Cell Biology Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of cell ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

Cell Biology Tutor

Richmond, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Cell Biology Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of cell ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

Cell Biology Tutor

Alexandria, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Cell Biology Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of cell ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

Cell Biology Tutor

Virginia Beach, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Cell Biology Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of cell ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

Senior Scientist

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Fitness and cell phone subsidies, and additional benefits such as legal services, pet insurance and ... Shape the future of science with us.

$62K/yr

Related fields include physiology, anatomy, molecular biology, cell biology, embryology, pathology ... of science where the work is directly related to the position to be filled. Exemption: You are ...

Senior Scientist

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Fitness and cell phone subsidies, and additional benefits such as legal services, pet insurance and ... Shape the future of science with us.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Cell Scientist information

See Virginia salary details

$19

$35

$50

How much do cell scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cell scientist in Virginia is $35.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $40.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do cell scientists make?

Cell scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Those with advanced degrees or specialized skills in laboratory techniques and research may earn higher salaries, especially in biotech or pharmaceutical industries.

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

To thrive as a Cell Scientist, you need a solid background in cell biology, molecular biology, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a relevant degree such as a PhD or MSc. Familiarity with advanced lab equipment, cell culture systems, flow cytometry, and data analysis software is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for designing experiments and collaborating with research teams. These skills and qualities are vital for producing accurate scientific results and advancing research in cellular biology.

What is the difference between Cell Scientist vs Cell Biologist?

AspectCell ScientistCell Biologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in biology, biochemistry, or related fields; often requires lab experienceTypically holds a PhD in cell biology or related discipline; advanced research experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research institutions, biotech companiesAcademic labs, research institutions, biotech firms
Industry UsageUsed broadly in biotech, pharmaceuticals, researchPrimarily in academic and research settings
Common Search IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, job prospectsResearch focus, academic careers, specialized projects

While both Cell Scientists and Cell Biologists work in laboratory settings focusing on cellular research, Cell Scientists often have a broader range of educational backgrounds and may work in industry or applied research. Cell Biologists typically hold advanced degrees and focus on fundamental research in academic or specialized settings. The roles overlap but differ mainly in level of education and research focus.

What are the typical collaborative interactions a cell scientist has with other departments in a research setting?

Cell Scientists frequently collaborate with colleagues in bioinformatics, clinical research, and chemistry to advance experimental outcomes. They often work closely with immunologists, molecular biologists, and lab technicians to design experiments, share data, and interpret results. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as projects often require input from various scientific disciplines to troubleshoot issues and drive innovation. This collaborative environment provides opportunities to learn from other experts and contribute to multidisciplinary breakthroughs.

What is a cell scientist?

A Cell Scientist is a researcher who studies the structure, function, and behavior of cells, which are the basic building blocks of all living organisms. Their work involves using advanced laboratory techniques to observe, manipulate, and analyze cells to understand biological processes, disease mechanisms, and potential treatments. Cell Scientists often work in academic, medical, or industrial research settings and may specialize in areas such as cancer biology, immunology, or regenerative medicine. Their findings contribute to advancements in healthcare, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals.
What job categories do people searching Cell Scientist jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Cell Scientist jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cell Scientist jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Cell Scientist job openings:
Infographic showing various Cell Scientist job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,232 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Cell Biologist

Luna Labs USA

Charlottesville, VA โ€ข On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Cell Biologist โ€“ In Vitro Models and Assay Development
Charlottesville, VA
About Luna Labs
Luna Labs is a product development company working with leading organizations and key government agencies to create unique solutions for complex challenges in defense, industrial, and healthcare markets. We operate like a self-contained incubator for defense and biotech startups, taking solutions from concept through development to new products in the market. We leverage small business agility and large business capabilities to accelerate breakthrough solutions from concept to early-stage growth. Working with a robust global network of manufacturers, suppliers, licensees, and distributors, Luna Labs develops everything from small-scale prototypes to market-ready products.
The Opportunity
The Biotech Group is seeking a driven, creative, detail-oriented scientist to join our fast-paced research and development team. This position will focus on leading the design, development, and execution of novel in vitro assays and micro-physiological systems (MPS) to evaluate advanced therapeutic and vaccine delivery platforms. The ideal candidate will have experience in mammalian cell culture, immunology, and complex tissue culture models, with a passion for building innovative methods from the ground up in a highly collaborative team environment. The role will involve managing cell culture laboratory efforts at Luna Labs, including hands-on laboratory work across a range of currently funded programs and contributions to establishing new Biotech R amp;D initiatives.
What Youโ€™ll Do
  • Novel Assay and Method Development: Design, optimize, and validate novel cell culture assays, functional readouts, and analytical methods to support pipeline discovery research efforts.
  • Complex Tissue Modeling: Establish and maintain advanced in vitro models, including Transwell culture systems, blood-brain barrier (BBB) models, and organ-on-a-chip platforms.
  • Immunological Characterization: Isolate, expand, and maintain primary human immune cells (such as T-cells, B-cells, dendritic cells, or peripheral blood mononuclear cells and other immune subsets). Design and conduct functional assays to assess immune responses to vaccine candidates, nanoparticle-based delivery systems, and therapeutic formulations.
  • Analytical Screening: Perform routine and complex downstream analyses, including multiplex ELISAs, flow cytometry-based immune phenotyping and activation marker analysis, antibody production and B-cell response assays, cytocompatibility assays, and hemolysis assays to evaluate the biocompatibility and safety of biomaterial prototypes.
  • Instrumentation Management: Maintain, calibrate, and operate laboratory instrumentation and equipment to ensure reliable performance and data quality.
  • Advanced Imaging and Characterization: Conduct high-resolution microscopic imaging, flow cytometry, transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), and quantitative image analysis to characterize cellular morphology, barrier integrity, and cellular localization.
  • Technical Documentation: Record, manage, summarize, and interpret experimental data, communicating technical findings clearly. Maintain complete and accurate laboratory notebooks in accordance with established documentation practices.
  • Collaborative Execution: Work closely with cross-functional teams, promoting and adhering to laboratory and office safety protocols/best practices and contributing to a fast-paced, high-performing research culture.
Minimum Qualifications
  • BS or MS in Immunology, Biomedical Engineering, Cell Biology, or a closely related discipline
  • Three or more years of laboratory-based industry or academic research experience
  • Extensive hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture, including mastery of sterile technique
  • Strong understanding of fundamental immunology principles
  • Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative R amp;D environment
  • Strong capability to work independently and effectively within multidisciplinary teams
  • High attention to detail and strong commitment to quality experimental work and documentation
  • Excellent communication skills, including technical writing, data analysis, presentation of results, and interpersonal collaboration
  • Ability to think outside the box to troubleshoot complex biological systems and pioneer new methodologies
  • Demonstrated ability to understand and evaluate technical approaches within the context of end-use applications
  • Ability to manage and contribute to multiple concurrent research programs
  • U.S. citizenship is required due to government contracting regulations
Preferred Skills
  • Advanced In Vitro Models: Experience developing and evaluating Transwell, co-culture, or organ-on-a-chip microfluidic systems
  • Cell Culture: Experience working with primary human cells and blood components and/or immune cells
  • Immunology Research: Experience conducting vaccine research or evaluating adjuvants and immune responses
  • Assay Development: Proven track record of developing, troubleshooting, and executing novel functional assays
  • Imaging: Proficiency in fluorescence, confocal, and/or high-content microscopic imaging
Supervisory Role
  • No
Work Environment
  • The role involves working onsite and in a BSL-2 laboratory environment and interacting with technical staff
  • Laboratory work may involve mammalian cell cultures, human-derived biological materials, blood components, chemicals, and other materials requiring appropriate biosafety practices
  • The position may require extended periods of standing or sitting, repetitive pipetting and other fine-motor tasks, and routine use of laboratory instruments and computer equipment
  • Some duties may occasionally be completed remotely using secure company equipment and software, at the supervisor's discretion
  • Occasional travel between company locations, client sites, conferences, and related events is required
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs may be required
What We Offer
  • Salary Range: $70,00 -- $90,000 annually (depending on experience)
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Opportunities for professional development and continued education
  • Collaborative, innovation-focused work culture

Luna Labs USA logo

About Luna Labs USA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2022