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In Vitro Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Scientific Director

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $182K/yr

Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for in vitro immunology and autoimmune diseases pharmacology, supporting the business development team in identifying and developing new business ...

Build clinically translatable healthy in vitro models using primary cells/tissues (Kidney, Liver, Heart, etc.) * Design and implement high‑throughput screening (HTS) experiments at cellular, 3D in ...

Scientific Director

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $182K/yr

Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for in vitro immunology and autoimmune diseases pharmacology, supporting the business development team in identifying and developing new business ...

Showing results 41-60

In Vitro information

See California salary details

$5

$16

$20

How much do in vitro jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 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 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 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 popular job titles related to In Vitro jobs in California?

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

What cities in California are hiring for In Vitro jobs?

Cities in California with the most In Vitro job openings:

Infographic showing various In Vitro job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 88% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,826 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Senior Scientist, Biology

Deep Apple Therapeutics

South San Francisco, CA

$120K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Deep Apple Therapeutics is a Bay Area biotechnology company with a focus on combining capabilities in molecular docking and structural biology to create a nucleus for accelerated drug discovery through advanced computer aided drug design technologies. Deep Apple Therapeutics is applying a state-of-the-art technology research platform based on advanced computational modeling and large-scale compound docking (LSD), cryo-EM based structural biology, and deep learning to drug discovery.

We are seeking highly motivated and energetic scientists to join a dynamic and well-funded research organization. We have multiple openings in molecular biology, structural biology, deep learning and in vitro biology. Deep Apple Therapeutics offers a highly competitive compensation, equity, and benefits package.

The Role

Our innovation and value-driven organization is seeking to hire an outstanding Scientist to join our rapidly growing biology drug discovery team. Reporting to the Director of Biology, you will design and execute in vitro biology programs that advance novel targets from concept to pre-clinical proof-of-principle - playing a hands-on role at the heart of our pipeline.

Essential Duties

  • Design and develop biochemical, cell-based, and functional assays to validate novel target concepts through pre-clinical in vitro proof-of-principle studies
  • Design and execute medium- to high-throughput compound screens to accelerate drug discovery programs
  • Identify and implement novel technologies to expand team capabilities
  • Lead scientific engagements with CROs to expedite programs and augment internal capacity
  • Collaborate cross-functionally and contribute to a culture of scientific rigor, including mentoring junior team members
  • Communicate findings clearly through presentations, reports, and appropriate documentation

Preferred Education and Experience

  • PhD in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of industry experience in small molecule drug discovery, with deep expertise in receptor pharmacology.

Preferred Skills, Qualifications, or Technical Proficiencies

  • Hands-on expertise in compound screening and molecular/cellular techniques to interrogate target biology and mechanisms of action
  • In-depth knowledge of GPCR pharmacology and signal transduction
  • Strong cell culture skills and laboratory practices
  • Rigorous scientific thinking with sharp attention to detail
  • Collaborative, creative, and proactive - comfortable driving projects independently and contributing to team strategy

At Deep Apple, we value diversity, encourage professional growth, and provide competitive benefits and compensation.
Deep Apple is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME