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In Vitro Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Astera

In Vitro Neuroscientist

Emeryville, CA · On-site

Design and execute experiments using in vitro brain slice prep * Characterize neuronal network activity and circuit dynamics * Perform and optimize electrophysiological recordings, including patch ...

Astera

In Vitro Neuroscientist

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$60K - $150K/yr

Design and execute experiments using in vitro brain slice prep * Characterize neuronal network activity and circuit dynamics * Perform and optimize electrophysiological recordings, including patch ...

WuXi AppTec

Scientist II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

Performs tLNP generation and in vitro validation via cell-based assays. * Establishes and ensures delivery of financial and productivity goals. * Works closely with colleagues to coordinate ...

WuXi AppTec

Scientist I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Performs tLNP generation and in vitro validation via cell-based assays. * Establishes and ensures delivery of financial and productivity goals. * Works closely with colleagues to coordinate ...

WuXi AppTec

Scientist I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Performs tLNP generation and in vitro validation via cell-based assays. * Establishes and ensures delivery of financial and productivity goals. * Works closely with colleagues to coordinate ...

WuXi AppTec

Scientist I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Performs tLNP generation and in vitro validation via cell-based assays. * Establishes and ensures delivery of financial and productivity goals. * Works closely with colleagues to coordinate ...

WuXi AppTec

Scientist II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

Performs tLNP generation and in vitro validation via cell-based assays. * Establishes and ensures delivery of financial and productivity goals. * Works closely with colleagues to coordinate ...

WuXi AppTec

Scientist II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

Performs tLNP generation and in vitro validation via cell-based assays. * Establishes and ensures delivery of financial and productivity goals. * Works closely with colleagues to coordinate ...

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How much do in vitro jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for in vitro in California is $16.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an in vitro job?

In vitro jobs refer to positions that involve conducting experiments or research outside of a living organism, typically in a controlled laboratory environment such as test tubes or petri dishes. These roles are common in the fields of biology, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals, where scientists study cells, tissues, or biological molecules to understand processes or test the effects of drugs. In vitro specialists may work as research associates, scientists, or laboratory technicians, performing assays, analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. Their work is critical for advancing medical research, drug development, and diagnostic testing.

What is the difference between In Vitro vs In Vivo Research Scientist?

AspectIn Vitro Research ScientistIn Vivo Research Scientist
Work EnvironmentLaboratories with cell cultures and test tubesAnimal facilities and live subject testing
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in biology, biochemistry, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in biology, pharmacology, or related fields
Industry UsagePharmaceutical, biotech, academic researchPharmaceutical, biotech, academic research
Research FocusCell-based experiments, molecular analysisWhole organism studies, physiological responses

In Vitro and In Vivo Research Scientists both work in biomedical research but differ in their focus. In Vitro scientists conduct experiments in controlled lab environments using cell cultures, while In Vivo scientists study live organisms. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are common in pharmaceutical and biotech industries, but their work environments and research methods vary significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in in vitro research, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in In Vitro research often face challenges such as maintaining the integrity and reproducibility of experimental results, troubleshooting unexpected outcomes, and keeping up with rapidly evolving laboratory technologies. Managing these challenges involves rigorous attention to detail, strong documentation practices, and continuous learning through professional development. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, such as biologists, chemists, and data analysts, is also key to successfully navigating complex projects and advancing research objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an in vitro laboratory scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an In Vitro Laboratory Scientist, you need a solid background in cell biology, biochemistry, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a degree in life sciences or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instruments (e.g., PCR, ELISA, cell culture systems), data analysis software, and regulatory compliance (such as GLP or GMP) is crucial. Precision, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills are key soft skills for ensuring accurate experimental results. These skills and qualities are essential for producing reliable data that drive scientific research and product development.

What are popular job titles related to In Vitro jobs in California?

For In Vitro jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching In Vitro jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for In Vitro jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for In Vitro jobs?

Cities in California with the most In Vitro job openings:

In Vitro jobs near you
Infographic showing various In Vitro job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,826 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

In Vitro Neuroscientist

Astera Institute

Emeryville, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Astera Institute Experimental Neuroscientist

The Astera Institute is seeking an exceptional experimental neuroscientist to develop and execute experiments using in vitro brain slice prep. This role will focus on functional characterization of complex neuronal networks using electrophysiology, imaging, and bioengineering approaches. The ideal candidate is deeply experienced in neuronal cell culture and excited to work at the intersection of stem cell biology, neurotechnology, and quantitative neuroscience.

Responsibilities
  • Design and execute experiments using in vitro brain slice prep
  • Characterize neuronal network activity and circuit dynamics
  • Perform and optimize electrophysiological recordings, including patch clamp and multielectrode array (MEA) platforms
  • Implement optical and imaging-based methods for monitoring neuronal function, including calcium and voltage imaging
  • Contribute to experimental strategy, technology development, publications, and scientific direction in a fast-moving research environment
  • Maintain rigorous experimental documentation and data standards
Qualifications and Experience
  • PhD in Neuroscience, Neurobiology, Biomedical Engineering, Physiology, or related discipline
  • Strong track record of hands-on experimental neuroscience research
  • Expertise in one or more of the following:
    • Optical techniques for probing neural circuits
    • Patch clamp electrophysiology
    • Multielectrode array systems
    • Functional imaging of neuronal activity
    • Human stem cell-derived neural cultures or organoids
    • Neural signal analysis and quantitative neuroscience
  • Experience culturing and maintaining neuronal systems in vitro
  • Proficiency in data analysis using Python, MATLAB, or similar scientific computing tools
Location

This position is onsite at our office in Emeryville, CA. Some travel may be required from time-to-time for in-person collaboration and work.

Compensation

The posted salary range is based on location in the Bay Area. The successful candidate will receive a competitive compensation package, commensurate with their experience and location.

Cultural Alignment
  • Surprising problem-solver – you love finding unexpected solutions to problems we don't even know we have, and see options where others only see constraints.
  • Flexible by default – you don't draw hard lines around your job description and expect your role to evolve significantly over 6–12 months.
  • Bias to action – you launch and iterate on thoughtful experiments rather than waiting for perfect plans, and you're energized by novel problems.
  • High standards, internally driven – you believe you can build the world's best vehicle for unleashing extraordinary individuals to create public goods, and you hold yourself to that bar without benchmarking against others.
  • Open to feedback – You create opportunities to give and receive honest feedback, staying focused on both personal and team growth, and committing to transparency even when it's uncomfortable.
  • Operate with the highest levels of integrity, judgment, and stewardship -- you treat residents, peers, and vendors with genuine respect for their time and contributions.
  • Embrace the tools that define great work today – Astera is building for an AI-driven future and equips the team accordingly. We see these as genuine force multipliers, not optional extras, and we expect our people to use them

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