United Therapeutics Co-op Position
United Therapeutics is the first publicly-traded biotech or pharmaceutical company to take the form of a public benefit corporation. Our public benefit purpose is to provide a brighter future for patients through the development of novel pharmaceutical therapies; and technologies that expand the availability of transplantable organs. United Therapeutics seeks to travel down the corridors of indifference to develop treatments for rare, deadly diseases.
If you're excited by stem cells, real lab work, and science that has the potential to change lives, this co-op puts you right where it counts. Over six months, you'll work hands-on with the Cell Production team to culture, expand, and differentiate iPSC-derived lung cell populations—helping build the cellular foundation for lab-grown organs. From running bioreactors and optimizing media to assessing cell quality using imaging and flow cytometry, you'll turn your academic knowledge into tangible results.
This Co-op will assist a project lead/scientist with in one of the following areas:
- Perform routine iPSC culture, expansion, and differentiation in 2D monolayer and 3D suspension formats (bioreactors), including microcarrier- and aggregate-based systems.
- Perform media formulation activities, including small-scale optimization, bulk media preparation, and documentation.
- Assist with setup, operation, sampling, and maintenance of bioreactor systems, supporting scale-up and process optimization activities.
- Develop methods for differentiation of Lung cell populations from iPSCs under direct/indirect supervision.
- Assess cell differentiation and quality using cell imaging, cell counting, viability assays, and flow cytometry–based readouts.
- Provide hands-on support for established QC and in-process testing to enable continued process development of in-house iPSC-derived cell products.
- Generate comprehensive protocols and experimental documentation for cell culture, differentiation, and analytical workflows.
- Assist with routine laboratory activities including equipment setup, reagent preparation, sample tracking, and data recording in alignment with R&D and PD best practices.
- Communicate cross-functionally with members of the Organ Manufacturing Group and other company functions as needed.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
For this role you will need:
- Minimum Qualifications: Candidates must be at least a rising undergraduate junior and actively enrolled student in an academic program for the duration of the assignment; pursuing a BA/BS, MA/MS, or PhD degree in Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Tissue Engineering, Regenerative Medicine, Biomedical Engineering, or related discipline. Candidates must be receptive to learning, inquisitive, and self-motivated. Knowledge of basic cell culture and cellular/molecular assays. Knowledge of basic flow cytometry is desired. Confident track record of antibiotic-free cell culture. Experience working in a hands-on lab environment. Strong attention to detail and experience following experimental methods and protocols. Ability to retain sufficient records and keep electronic lab notebook records to the level of reproducibility. Ability to communicate and collaborate cross-functionally, and utilize internal and external resources to resolve issues in creative, efficient, and effective ways
- Preferred Qualifications: Actively enrolled student in a Master's or PhD degree program in Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Tissue Engineering, Regenerative Medicine, Biomedical Engineering, Biology or related discipline. Experience working with stem cell differentiation, media formulation and basic flow cytometry
Eligible employees may participate in the Company's comprehensive benefits suite of programs, including medical / dental / vision / prescription coverage, employee wellness resources, savings plans (401k and ESPP), paid time off & paid parental leave benefits, disability benefits, and more.
United Therapeutics Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.