ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Insect Cell Culture Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Caltech

Research Technical Assistant

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Experience with routine mammalian and insect cell culturing and using sterile techniques. * Practical knowledge of basic molecular biology techniques (e.g., nucleic acid extraction, PCR, molecular ...

4411

Research Associate, Microbiology

Dallas, TX

Experience with biochemical techniques including protein expression/purification from bacterial, mammalian, and insect cell culture systems is preferred. BENEFITS UT Southwestern is proud to offer a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsInsect Cell Culture Jobs

Insect Cell Culture information

See salary details

$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?

AspectInsect Cell CultureMicrobiologist
Required CredentialsBiology or related degree, lab experienceBiology, microbiology, or related degree, lab experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companiesResearch labs, healthcare, environmental agencies
Industry UsageBiotech, vaccine development, insect cell linesHealthcare, 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.

Infographic showing various Insect Cell Culture job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,219 per year, or $17.4 per hour.
Federal Work Study Student, Pharmacology

Federal Work Study Student, Pharmacology

University of Texas Medical Branch

Galveston, TX

$17 - $23.25/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Minimum Qualifications:

High school Diploma, UTMB student enrolled at least half-time.

Job Description: 

Assist in Basic Research in a structural biology/biophysics laboratory with a neuroscience and synapse biology focus (UTMB, Galveston location)


Job Duties:

Position requirements will vary from day to day and may include the following:

1.       Prepare buffers, solutions, and biochemical reagents.

2.       Carry out basic biochemical techniques.

3.       Manage protocols and inventory lists (using Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

4.       Work with bacteria nonpathogenic cultures (E. coli) and insect cell cultures.

5.       Assist in equipment maintenance and general lab duties.

6.       Analyze data and prepare data presentations using Excel, PowerPoint, etc.

7.       Working as part of a very enthusiastic, dynamic, and friendly research team.

Salary Range:

Commensurate with experience.

University of Texas Medical Branch logo

About University of Texas Medical Branch

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), based in Galveston, TX, US, operates within the education and healthcare sectors. Established in 1891 as the University of Texas’ first academic health center, UTMB has been at the forefront of educational, research, and clinical excellence in the medical field. Its offerings encompass a full range of degrees in health-related fields, extensive research facilities, and three major institutes for advanced study. The organization's mission is to improve health for the people of Texas and around the world, and its core values revolve around diversity, integrity, leadership, respect, and teamwork. A significant achievement of UTMB includes its recognition as a top-notch medical research institution and a primary source of healthcare for many Texas residents.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Galveston, TX, US

Year founded

1891

View All University of Texas Medical Branch Jobs

Apply