Cell Culture Process Development Co-Op

Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine – Spring 2026 R&D Co-Op Opportunities

Location:Malvern, PA
Duration:January 2026 – June 2026

Research & Development Co-op Overview:

J&J R&D encompasses the development of sophisticated materials, process improvements, risk management and mechanical testing through the development process across all sectors including Pharmaceutical, Medical Device, Consumer and Corporate/Enterprise.

We offer a fast-paced cross-functional, technologically advanced, corporate environment, passionate about developing individual engineering and scientific skills. You will have the opportunity to learn about anatomy, disease states, deformities and the surgical procedure/products used to address these conditions.

Life as an R&D Co-Op:

The R&D Co-Op program provides each student with real-life hands-on experience, coaching and mentoring, networking opportunities, as well as the opportunity to meet people from various schools throughout the country. Each Co-Op will be assigned to a single function with a specific project for the 6-month term.

The typical Co-op term is from Jan 2026– Jun 2026.

Key Responsibilities:

Our R&D Co-op program provides a unique opportunity to work on real projects involving protein process development, cell culture, bioreactor operation, and process optimization. The focus areas include upstream and downstream bioprocessing, process control, and analytical data interpretation. You will collaborate with internal teams and external partners, participate in experimental design, and contribute to the development of best practices in bioprocessing. These roles' responsibilities include:

• Protein Process Development:Support bioreactor experiments, optimize antifoam and foam sensor practices, and analyze process variables affecting protein production.
• Cell Culture & Upstream Processing:Assist in the development and optimization of cell culture processes, including media formulation, bioreactor operation, and process monitoring.
• Data Analysis & Reporting:Use statistical tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab) to analyze experimental results, visualize data, and support decision-making.
• Experimental Planning:Contribute to designing experiments to fill knowledge gaps and improve process robustness.
• Technical Documentation:Maintain detailed lab notebooks and technical reports in accordance with company guidelines.
• Collaboration & Communication:Participate in team meetings, technical discussions, and project updates with internal and external stakeholders.
• Additional Support:Provide general project assistance as needed to meet project goals.

Qualifications

Education:

• Pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree in Biological Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Microbiology, or related fields.
• Actively enrolled at an accredited university for the duration of the co-op.
• Minimum GPA of 2.8.
• Completion of at least the undergraduate freshman year; Juniors and Seniors preferred.

Experience and Skills:

Required:

• Strong analytical and quantitative skills.
• Laboratory experience in cell culture, bioprocessing, or related areas.
• Familiarity with experimental design, data analysis, and statistical tools.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
• Legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
• Proven leadership or participation in campus/community activities is desirable.

Preferred:

• Prior experience with aseptic techniques, bioreactor operation, or protein biochemistry.
• Experience with cell culture, especially mammalian or microbial systems.
• Familiarity with programming languages or data aggregation tools.
• Background in protein purification and characterization.
• Experience in experimental design, research, and data analysis.

Johnson & Johnson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local law. We actively seek qualified candidates who are protected veterans and individuals with disabilities as defined under VEVRAA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Johnson & Johnson is committed to providing an interview process that is inclusive of our applicants’ needs. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request an accommodation,  external applicants please contact us via  https://www.jnj.com/contact-us/careers . internal employees contact AskGS to be directed to your accommodation resource.