Multiplexed Assays for Cell-based Production of Biopharmaceuticals
This project aims to create faster, more reliable tests using arrays and flow cytometry to improve the safe and efficient production of protein-based medicines from cells.
This grant is no longer accepting proposals
NRC Research Associateship Programs has archived this opportunity.
Funder: NRC Research Associateship Programs
Due Dates: February 1, 2025 | May 1, 2025 | August 1, 2025 | November 1, 2025
Funding Amounts: Stipend approximately $82,764 per year plus $3,000 travel allowance; typical appointment duration 2 years.
Summary: Supports postdoctoral research to develop multiplexed assays using chip arrays, bead arrays, and flow cytometry for improving safe and efficient cell-based production of protein therapeutics.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens with a doctoral degree earned within the last 5 years; research conducted on-site at NIST in Gaithersburg, MD; requires prior contact with Research Adviser.
Description
This fellowship opportunity at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) focuses on developing advanced multiplexed analytical assays to support the production of safe and effective protein therapeutics. Modern biopharmaceuticals are produced using mammalian cells cultured at high density, which can induce cellular stress and affect product quality. The project aims to create rapid, reliable, and sensitive multiplexed methods—including chip arrays, bead-based arrays, and conventional flow cytometry—to monitor both the cell substrate and the protein products.
Key research goals include:
- Developing model cell expression systems using Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells producing monoclonal antibodies at high levels.
- Creating protein arrays to measure antibody isoforms.
- Using nucleic acid arrays to monitor genetic stability of production cells and detect viral or bacterial contamination.
- Designing flow cytometry assays to assess cell health and signaling pathways.
This research supports the economic and safe production of biopharmaceuticals by improving analytical tools for quality control and process monitoring.
