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Entry Level Cell Culture Scientist Jobs in Raleigh, NC

The Expert, Science & Technology - Upstream/Cell Culture, is responsible for cell & gene therapy (AAV and LVV) upstream process development, optimization and scaling up/down, process characterization ...

... to test scientific hypotheses across mouse models, cell lines, and primary cell cultures. In this role, you will also assist with laboratory management, including inventory tracking, equipment ...

Research Scientist

Durham, NC · On-site

$124K - $186K/yr

Our patient-focused and science-driven approach powers pioneering research and development ... Manage cell culture of cancer and normal cell lines. * Perform in vitro efficacy, mechanism of ...

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Entry Level Cell Culture Scientist information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$49.1K

$108.2K

$133.7K

How much do entry level cell culture scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cell culture scientist in Raleigh, NC is $108,234.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,900.00 and $133,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level cell culture scientist do?

An Entry Level Cell Culture Scientist is responsible for growing and maintaining cells in a laboratory environment to support research and product development. They prepare culture media, monitor cell growth, and ensure sterile conditions to prevent contamination. This role often involves performing experiments under supervision, maintaining detailed records, and assisting with data analysis. Entry level scientists may also help with laboratory maintenance and equipment calibration as part of their daily tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level cell culture scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cell Culture Scientist, you need a solid understanding of cell biology, aseptic technique, and laboratory safety, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, cell culture media preparation, and data analysis tools like Microsoft Excel or specialized software is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure reliable experimental results, maintain cell viability, and support successful collaboration within research or production teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level cell culture scientists, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level cell culture scientists often encounter challenges such as maintaining sterile technique to prevent contamination, accurately documenting experimental procedures, and mastering various cell types' growth requirements. These challenges can be addressed through rigorous adherence to standard operating procedures, meticulous record-keeping, and seeking mentorship from experienced team members. Regular training and open communication within the lab team also help new scientists quickly develop confidence and proficiency in handling delicate cell cultures.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cell Culture Scientist vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectEntry Level Cell Culture ScientistLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Biology, Biotechnology, or related field; basic cell culture knowledgeBachelor's in Life Sciences or related field; general lab skills
Work EnvironmentBiotech or pharmaceutical labs focusing on cell culture and researchVarious labs including clinical, research, or industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech companies, pharma, research institutionsHospitals, research labs, biotech firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Entry Level Cell Culture Scientist typically focuses on cell culture techniques, research, and experimental procedures in biotech or pharmaceutical labs. In contrast, Laboratory Technicians perform broader lab tasks, including sample preparation and basic testing. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, the Cell Culture Scientist role emphasizes specialized cell handling and research skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cell Culture Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Cell Culture Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cell Culture Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cell Culture Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

Scientist - Upstream Cell Culture

Novartis

Durham, NC • On-site

$93K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Novartis rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Job Description Summary

Location: Durham, NC #onsite
Novartis will not sponsor visas for this position.
Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role: please only apply if this location is accessible for you.
This role is required to be in our Durham, NC office 5x/week.
Role Purpose:
The Expert, Science & Technology - Upstream/Cell Culture, is responsible for cell & gene therapy (AAV and LVV) upstream process development, optimization and scaling up/down, process characterization, technology transfer and GMP manufacturing support.


Job Description

Major accountabilities:

  • Leads and support activity with cross-functional organizations to plan, execute, and document experiments and early manufacturing that define the process, and method of delivery to the clinical and commercial sites.

  • Design and execution of time-sensitive experiments, studies, and capturing related data and knowledge, to advance the development products from Research to Development to GMP manufacturing.

  • Maintains constant awareness of novel biochemical and biophysical technologies for gene therapy production and characterization. Keeps up to date with the scientific literature and developments in the field. Applies understanding of regulatory expectations to process development strategies. Contributes to process risk assessments. Justifies development strategies and experiment designs.

  • Designs and applies DOE and QbD studies to develop, refine, optimize and characterize cell culture and vector production processes. Executes experiments and troubleshoot process and equipment. Conducts laboratory studies to enhance gene therapy manufacturing technologies, capabilities and processes (such as media development, bioreactor fed-batch and perfusion process development, optimization and scale-up).

  • Supports initiatives for new technology development and continuous improvement projects.

  • Provides support for process, analytical, and characterization knowledge related to the production of gene therapy products, and the raw materials needed to make them.

  • Tracks records of collaborative relations with groups such as research and development, analytical development, and pilot scale operations.

  • Ensures all documentation and reports are accurate, complete, and suitable for using in support of production, characterization, and regulatory filings.

  • Writes detailed experimental protocols, develop Bill of Materials (BOM), executes and documents experimental studies according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) or established practices, review and report data.

  • Creates and revise SOPs for equipment and process operations.

  • Lead the authoring of technical reports and CMC sections for regulatory filings.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's biochemistry, chemical engineering, bioengineering, or related technical field with 4-6 years relevant experience or Master's with 2-4 or PhD with 0-2.
  • Extensive experience with production of virus or biologics from mammalian expression systems.

  • Hands on experience with different cell lines, bioreactors, and scale-down model is required.

  • Organized and systematic approach to viral or biologic production.

  • Ability to multi-task and meet tight timelines is essential.

  • Knowledge with a variety of biopharmaceutical purification processes.

  • Proficient in statistical analysis principles and approaches. Working knowledge and experience with Design of Experiment (DoE).

  • Ability to analyze data to make date-driven decisions and further progress development strategies. Innovative with a continuous improvement mindset. Excellent team player with good communication skills. Knowledge of viral cell/gene therapy and previous experience with AAV & LVV processes development is preferred.

  • Excellent team player with good communication skills.

Languages :

  • English.

The salary for this position is expected to range between $93,800 and $174,200 per year.

The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors.

Your compensation will include a performance-based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards.

US-based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days,

holidays and other leaves.


EEO Statement:

The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.


Accessibility and reasonable accommodations

The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to us.reasonableaccommodations@novartis.com or call +1(877)395-2339 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.


Salary Range

$93,800.00 - $174,200.00


Skills Desired


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