Research Associate In Cellular Assay Development

Roche is seeking a Research Associate in Cellular Assay Development to join its Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development (pRED) division, specifically within the Therapeutic Modalities Small Molecule Research Discovery team. The group focuses on turning disease biology into drug candidates across a range of modalities, and this role will contribute to building the cellular models that drive the discovery pipeline. The day‑to‑day work involves creating and refining cell‑based functional assays, including sophisticated three‑dimensional formats, and employing detection methods such as HTRF, AlphaLISA, luminescence and high‑content imaging. You will shrink these assays into high‑density plate layouts (384‑ and 1536‑well), improve performance metrics like Z‑factor and signal‑to‑background, and maintain a diverse portfolio of mammalian cell lines, from primary cells to iPSCs. Collaboration with the High‑Throughput Screening and Profiling unit is essential to move new assays onto automated robotic platforms, while routine runs will generate data for structure‑activity relationship studies. Complex screening results are analyzed with tools such as Genedata Screener and Spotfire, and all procedures are recorded in electronic lab notebooks. As the lead cellular assay specialist, you will share insights across chemistry, screening and therapeutic groups. Candidates must hold a master’s degree in cell or molecular biology or a closely related field and bring at least five years of industry experience in advanced cell culture and assay development. Proven ability to miniaturize workflows into 384‑ and 1536‑well formats and to operate automated liquid‑handling systems is required, as is strong competence in data analysis, statistics and clear scientific communication in English. A flexible, problem‑solving mindset suited to a dynamic laboratory environment is also essential. Desirable experience includes hands‑on work with iPSC differentiation, three‑dimensional cellular models or Design‑of‑Experiments approaches