Key Responsibilities Maintain healthy eukaryotic cell cultures, including insect (Sf9, Sf21, High Five) and/or mammalian expression lines. Generate, amplify, and quality-control baculovirus stocks ...
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Key Responsibilities Maintain healthy eukaryotic cell cultures, including insect (Sf9, Sf21, High Five) and/or mammalian expression lines. Generate, amplify, and quality-control baculovirus stocks ...
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
Key Responsibilities • Maintain healthy eukaryotic cell cultures, including insect (Sf9, Sf21, High Five) and/or mammalian expression lines. • Generate, amplify, and quality-control baculovirus ...
Quick apply
Key Responsibilities • Maintain healthy eukaryotic cell cultures, including insect (Sf9, Sf21, High Five) and/or mammalian expression lines. • Generate, amplify, and quality-control baculovirus ...
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
Research Technician
Pasadena, CA · On-site
$19 - $25.75/hr
Maintain and passage insect cells (Sf9 and Hi5) and mammalian cell cultures under sterile conditions. * Generate and amplify recombinant baculoviruses for protein expression in Sf9 and Hi5 cells.
Research Technician
Pasadena, CA · On-site
$19 - $25.75/hr
Maintain and passage insect cells (Sf9 and Hi5) and mammalian cell cultures under sterile conditions. * Generate and amplify recombinant baculoviruses for protein expression in Sf9 and Hi5 cells.
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
Scientist I
$45 - $54/hr
This position will contribute to recombinant baculovirus generation, insect cell culture operations, molecular biology workflows, and experimental execution supporting biologics development programs.
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Scientist I
$45 - $54/hr
This position will contribute to recombinant baculovirus generation, insect cell culture operations, molecular biology workflows, and experimental execution supporting biologics development programs.
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
Biochemist I
San Diego, CA · On-site
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
Biochemist I
San Diego, CA · On-site
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
Biochemist I (Must Have Tissue culture, assay skills, Sterile technique, Dilution & Pipetting)
San Diego, CA · On-site
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
Biochemist I (Must Have Tissue culture, assay skills, Sterile technique, Dilution & Pipetting)
San Diego, CA · On-site
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
Biochemist I
San Diego, CA · On-site
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
Biochemist I
San Diego, CA · On-site
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
Biochemist I
San Diego, CA · On-site
... cell culture, ascites production, insect cell shaker culture, recombinant protein production, in-process assays and safety procedures. The Biochemist I is expected to learn sterile technique and make ...
Biochemist I
San Diego, CA · On-site
... cell culture, ascites production, insect cell shaker culture, recombinant protein production, in-process assays and safety procedures. The Biochemist I is expected to learn sterile technique and make ...
SRA Protein Expression
Brisbane, CA · On-site
$76 - $86/hr
Highly proficient in maintaining insect cell and mammalian cell cultures. * Excellent knowledge and high degree of familiarity with all steps in baculovirus expression of recombinant proteins ...
SRA Protein Expression
Brisbane, CA · On-site
$76 - $86/hr
Highly proficient in maintaining insect cell and mammalian cell cultures. * Excellent knowledge and high degree of familiarity with all steps in baculovirus expression of recombinant proteins ...
Biochemist I
San Diego, CA · On-site
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
Biochemist I
San Diego, CA · On-site
The Biochemist I is expected to work independently, perform all laboratory functions that involved in Tissue Culture such as Hybridoma roller bottle cell culture, ascites production, insect cell ...
SRA Protein Expression
Brisbane, CA · On-site
$76 - $86/hr
Highly proficient in maintaining insect cell and mammalian cell cultures. * Excellent knowledge and high degree of familiarity with all steps in baculovirus expression of recombinant proteins ...
SRA Protein Expression
Brisbane, CA · On-site
$76 - $86/hr
Highly proficient in maintaining insect cell and mammalian cell cultures. * Excellent knowledge and high degree of familiarity with all steps in baculovirus expression of recombinant proteins ...
Mammalian cell, insect cell and microbial cell culture systems at both pilot-scale and at large-scale Different bioreactor production systems and scales, including disposable-based culture systems ...
Mammalian cell, insect cell and microbial cell culture systems at both pilot-scale and at large-scale Different bioreactor production systems and scales, including disposable-based culture systems ...
... insect cell systems; or B.S./M.S. with a minimum of 12 years' relevant experience. * Expert knowledge of mammalian cell culture, virology, molecular biology, and vector and biologics production.
... insect cell systems; or B.S./M.S. with a minimum of 12 years' relevant experience. * Expert knowledge of mammalian cell culture, virology, molecular biology, and vector and biologics production.
Insect Cell Culture information
See salary details
$10.82 - $12.04
1% of jobs
$12.04 - $13.26
4% of jobs
$13.26 - $14.49
10% of jobs
$15.15 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.49 - $15.71
18% of jobs
The median wage is $16.77 / hr.
$15.71 - $16.94
19% of jobs
$16.94 - $18.16
20% of jobs
$18.40 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.16 - $19.38
10% of jobs
$19.38 - $20.61
6% of jobs
$20.61 - $21.83
5% of jobs
$21.83 - $23.06
3% of jobs
$23.06 - $24.28
2% of jobs
$10
$17
$24
How much do insect cell culture jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for insect cell culture in the United States is $17.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Insect Cell Culture Specialist, and why are they important?
To excel as an Insect Cell Culture Specialist, you need a solid background in cell biology, aseptic techniques, and experience with insect cell lines, typically supported by a degree in biology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as incubators, bioreactors, and analytical systems, as well as knowledge of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or similar standards, is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the successful cultivation, maintenance, and experimentation of insect cells, which are critical for research, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical applications.
What is insect cell culture?
Insect cell culture is a laboratory technique where cells derived from insects are grown and maintained under controlled conditions. These cultures are widely used in biotechnology for protein production, gene expression studies, and vaccine development, often utilizing the baculovirus expression system. Insect cell lines, such as Sf9 or High Five cells, are particularly valued for their ability to produce complex proteins that require post-translational modifications. The process involves providing the cells with the necessary nutrients, temperature, and sterile environment to ensure optimal growth and productivity.
What are some common challenges faced in insect cell culture roles, and how can they be addressed?
Professionals working in insect cell culture often encounter challenges such as maintaining sterile conditions, optimizing growth media, and ensuring consistent expression of recombinant proteins. Contamination control is critical, as even minor lapses can lead to culture loss. To address these issues, teams typically follow strict aseptic techniques, regularly monitor cell health, and collaborate closely with researchers and quality control staff to troubleshoot and optimize protocols. Continuous learning and attention to detail are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring productive cell cultures.
What is the difference between Insect Cell Culture vs Microbiologist?
| Aspect | Insect Cell Culture | Microbiologist |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Biology or related degree, lab experience | Biology, microbiology, or related degree, lab experience |
| Work Environment | Research labs, biotech companies | Research labs, healthcare, environmental agencies |
| Industry Usage | Biotech, vaccine development, insect cell lines | Healthcare, food safety, environmental testing |
Both roles require a biology background and lab skills, but Insect Cell Culture specialists focus on insect cell lines for biotech applications, while Microbiologists work with a broader range of microorganisms across various industries.
Contractor
Posted 17 days ago
Job description
Position Details:
Our client, a world-leading Pharmaceutical Company in San Diego, CA is currently looking for an Research Associate I to join their expanding team.
Job Title: Research Associate I / Cell Culture
Duration: 12 months contract, extendable up to 48 months
Location: San Diego, CA
Note:
The client has the right-to-hire you as a permanent employee at any time during or after the end of the contract.
You may participate in the company group medical insurance plan
Job Description:
Our client, a world-leading Pharmaceutical Company in San Diego, CA is currently looking for an Research Associate I to join their expanding team.
Job Title: Research Associate I / Cell Culture
Duration: 12 months contract, extendable up to 48 months
Location: San Diego, CA
Note:
The client has the right-to-hire you as a permanent employee at any time during or after the end of the contract.
You may participate in the company group medical insurance plan
Job Description:
Research Associate I
Position Summary
The Structural Biology and Protein Sciences group is seeking a highly motivated contractor to support recombinant protein production efforts, primarily utilizing insect cell expression systems.
The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining eukaryotic cell cultures, generating and managing high-titer baculovirus stocks, and performing multi-liter scale protein expression and harvest workflows.
Additional responsibilities include executing plate-based expression and purification profiling to enable rapid screening of construct and condition variants.
This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to operate efficiently in a fast-paced research environment.
The Structural Biology and Protein Sciences group is seeking a highly motivated contractor to support recombinant protein production efforts, primarily utilizing insect cell expression systems.
The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining eukaryotic cell cultures, generating and managing high-titer baculovirus stocks, and performing multi-liter scale protein expression and harvest workflows.
Additional responsibilities include executing plate-based expression and purification profiling to enable rapid screening of construct and condition variants.
This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to operate efficiently in a fast-paced research environment.
Key Responsibilities
Maintain healthy eukaryotic cell cultures, including insect (Sf9, Sf21, High Five) and/or mammalian expression lines.
Generate, amplify, and quality-control baculovirus stocks, including centralized storage and record management.
Execute multi-liter scale recombinant protein expression experiments, including infection, culture monitoring, and cell harvest.
Perform small-scale, plate-based expression and purification profiling to assess expression levels, solubility, and purification behavior.
Maintain accurate and timely records of experimental data, cell line usage, and virus stock inventories.
Operate and maintain basic laboratory instrumentation and contribute to general lab support activities as needed.
Collaborate closely with team members to optimize expression workflows and troubleshoot technical issues.
Maintain healthy eukaryotic cell cultures, including insect (Sf9, Sf21, High Five) and/or mammalian expression lines.
Generate, amplify, and quality-control baculovirus stocks, including centralized storage and record management.
Execute multi-liter scale recombinant protein expression experiments, including infection, culture monitoring, and cell harvest.
Perform small-scale, plate-based expression and purification profiling to assess expression levels, solubility, and purification behavior.
Maintain accurate and timely records of experimental data, cell line usage, and virus stock inventories.
Operate and maintain basic laboratory instrumentation and contribute to general lab support activities as needed.
Collaborate closely with team members to optimize expression workflows and troubleshoot technical issues.
Minimum Qualifications
BS degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
Minimum of 3 years of hands-on laboratory experience, including work with insect cell culture (e.g., Sf9, Sf21, Hi5) and/or mammalian cell culture systems.
Demonstrated experience in aseptic technique and routine maintenance of suspension cultures.
BS degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
Minimum of 3 years of hands-on laboratory experience, including work with insect cell culture (e.g., Sf9, Sf21, Hi5) and/or mammalian cell culture systems.
Demonstrated experience in aseptic technique and routine maintenance of suspension cultures.
Highly Desirable Qualifications
Experience with the Bac-to-Bac baculovirus expression system, including donor plasmid preparation, bacmid generation, and virus amplification.
Familiarity with plate-based expression and purification approaches (e.g., 24?96 well plates and rapid IMAC and other affinity-based screens).
Experience conducting multi-liter expression campaigns and associated downstream sample handling.
Strong analytical, organizational, and documentation skills.
Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams.