Pharma Imaging Cell Biologist

Job Description

Job Description

Cogent Scientific, an insourced contract research organization, is looking for the right people to accomplish our Mission: to support the life sciences industry by cultivating and empowering exceptional scientists to deliver specialized laboratory services that advance research, foster collaboration, and accelerate innovation through quality and a shared commitment to excellence. We can offer you the chance to build on your skills and knowledge while working among experts in their fields and with cutting-edge instrumentation.

Cogent Scientific offers competitive pay, attractive benefits (such as medical/dental/vision insurance; 401(k); parental leave; PTO and paid holidays; etc.) and an exciting work environment. This position may include relocation benefits as well. We aim to recruit the best people who stand out among their peers and embody our Core Values:

• C lient Focused: We only succeed when our clients succeed.

• O utstanding: We deliver meticulous results through outstanding performance.

• G ood: We act ethically and morally.

• E mployee-Centric: We honor and support our employees.

• N imble: We are prepared to adapt in an ever-changing industry.

• T eam-Oriented: We collaborate with each other and with our clients.

We currently have a role available for a Pharma Imaging Cell Biologist.

Job duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Develop, qualify, and execute high content imaging assays in 384-well format in support of SAR and mechanism of action studies across active programs.

• Run image-based assay cascades and deliver analyzed data ready for project team review on agreed timelines.

• Build, validate, and maintain image analysis pipelines, including segmentation, feature extraction, and single-cell analysis, and translate multiparametric outputs into robust potency and efficacy metrics.

• Conduct mechanism of action studies in cellular systems using imaging readouts, including target engagement, pathway perturbation, time-course, live-cell kinetic, washout, and resynthesis experiments.

• Adapt and transfer imaging assays across cell models and disease areas as program priorities shift.

• Troubleshoot imaging assay performance (signal window, staining variability, focus and acquisition quality, segmentation accuracy, plate and edge effects, DMSO tolerance) and implement corrective actions.

• Maintain rigorous electronic notebook documentation, acquisition settings, analysis parameters, and assay metadata so results are reproducible and immediately interpretable by project teams.

• Communicate results to project teams via written summaries and meeting presentations, including representative images that support quantitative conclusions.

Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:

• PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Biophysics, or a related field.

• 1+ years of industry experience in a drug discovery setting (biotech or pharma).

• Demonstrated hands-on expertise developing and executing high content imaging assays in support of small molecule or other modality optimization.

• Proficiency with automated imaging platforms (for example Opera Phenix, CellVoyager, ImageXpress, or CellInsight) and associated analysis software.

• Direct experience designing and interpreting mechanism of action experiments in cellular systems.

• Impeccable verbal and written communication skills.

• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

• Excellent attention to detail.

• Ability to work well both independently and within a team.

• Very strong problem-solving skills, a high level of learning agility, and the ability to work across functions.

• The ideal candidate should be enthusiastic and self-motivated, with the leadership and communication skills necessary to operate effectively in a fast-paced multidisciplinary environment with flexibility and an adaptable approach to goal delivery.

This is an onsite, day shift position (approx. 8a-5p local time) In Louisville, CO.

Cogent Scientific provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate based on any legally protected characteristic.

Additionally, if you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please let us know.

This job posting will close by 12/31/2026 or when a candidate is identified, whichever comes first.