About Discovery Life Sciences
Discovery Life Sciences (Discovery) is a leading provider of highly characterized human biospecimens and cellular starting materials to advance cell and gene therapy and precision medicine programs for cancer, infectious disease, and other complex conditions. We routinely manage hundreds of studies and expertly test thousands of biospecimens simultaneously. Leading biopharma, diagnostic and academic institutions trust us to quickly deliver high-quality biospecimens and reliable, reproducible biomarker data, so they can outpace their competition and push the leading edge of innovation using our Science at your Service TM business model.
Position Summary
Discovery Life Sciences is seeking a Quality Assurance Associate to join our Global Quality & Regulatory team. This role plays a critical part in ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and compliance of laboratory and quality system documentation across Specialty Lab Services. Through the application of ALCOA+ data integrity principles, Good Documentation Practices (GDP), and risk-based quality methodologies, the Quality Assurance Associate will perform independent reviews of global scientific, technical, and quality records to ensure they meet regulatory requirements, customer expectations, and internal quality standards. The QA Associate will also be providing local internal and external audit support at our Newtown, PA location.
This position offers an excellent opportunity for recent graduates or early-career professionals to gain meaningful experience in a regulated biotechnology environment while contributing directly to Discovery Life Sciences' mission to improving patient outcomes. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, collaborative, and passionate about quality and compliance.
A Day in the Life of a QA Associate at Discovery Life Sciences
Review scientific, technical, and quality documentation to ensure compliance with GxP requirements, internal procedures, and industry standards.
Partner with laboratory, operations, and quality teams to facilitate timely document review and approval processes.
Support customer and regulatory audits by preparing documentation, tracking requests, and assisting with audit logistics.
Conduct audits of study binders and quality records to verify completeness, traceability, and inspection readiness.
Assist with quality investigations, CAPA follow-up activities, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Collaborate with global team members, including colleagues in Germany, to support quality system effectiveness and compliance.
Must-Have Qualifications (Education, Skills, Experience)
- Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Life Sciences, or a related scientific discipline. Related experience or degree fields may be considered.
- 0 to 2 years of experience in Quality Assurance, laboratory, lab operations, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, CRO, or other regulated environments.
- Internship, co-op, undergraduate research, or laboratory experience in a regulated setting.
- Experience supporting audits, document control activities, or quality systems is a plus.
- Must have excellent Microsoft Office skills (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, One Note, etc.)
- Basic understanding of GxP requirements, Good Documentation Practices (GDP), and ALCOA+ data integrity principles.
- PMP certification or certifications from the American Society for Quality (ASQ) or similar professional organizations.
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to review technical and scientific documentation for accuracy, completeness, and consistency.
- Recent graduates with relevant coursework and laboratory experience are encouraged to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Document Review & Compliance
- Review and approve GxP-regulated documents for compliance, accuracy, completeness, and quality.
- Perform quality reviews of study protocols, protocol amendments, analytical plans, and bioanalytical reports.
- Review assay development reports, validation plans, and validation reports to ensure compliance with regulatory and internal requirements.
- Assess change controls and risk management documentation for appropriate impact assessment, implementation, and documentation.
- Review computerized system validation documents to ensure systems remain fit for intended use and maintained in a validated state.
- Conduct audits of study binders and associated records to verify completeness, traceability, and audit readiness.
- Identify quality, compliance, and documentation issues and trends, providing timely feedback and resolution support.
- Audit Support
- Assist with pre-audit preparation and documentation requests.
- Support customer, client, and regulatory audits by documenting requests, retrieving records, coordinating responses, and facilitating audit activities.
- Provide post-audit support, including documentation of findings and review of audit responses where applicable.
- Track corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) through completion and closure.
- Quality Systems & Continuous Improvement
- Support continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen quality systems, documentation processes, and compliance effectiveness.
- Participate in internal audits as appropriate.
- Develop procedures, work instructions, job aids, and other controlled documents.
- Support departments during implementation of quality-related activities and initiatives.
Compensation and Benefits
- Discovery Life Sciences is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices, and we strive to provide employees with total compensation packages that are market competitive. For this role, the anticipated base pay range is $45,000-$65,000 annually. Candidates hired to work in other locations will be subject to the pay range associated with that location, and the actual annualized salary amount offered to any candidate at the time of hire will be reflected solely in the candidate’s offer letter. The exact base pay offered for this role will depend on various factors, including the candidate's qualifications, skills, and experience. Your annual salary is only one part of your total compensation package. Other benefits include:
- Competitive salary and benefits package options, including a free dental, vision package, life insurance, and disability coverage which start on your first day of employment.
- 401(k) match program which starts on your first day of employment.
- Time away from work (Generous vacation and paid time off, paid parental leave, paid family leave, etc.).
- Professional development opportunities and reimbursement for relevant certifications and tuition.
- Collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity.
- Team-building activities and social events.
- Employee Referral Program and Colleague Recognition Program.
Location, work hours, and application details
- Hybrid schedule, working at least 3 days per week onsite in Newtown, PA
- Flexible work schedule, however must be willing to accommodate multiple time zone including some early morning starts in order to work with the team in Germany and be available on site for audits in Newtown, PA during regular business hours
- Approximately 5-10% domestic or international travel required for mandatory site meetings and trainings
We are actively seeking motivated, dedicated individuals like you to join our thriving organization. As a leader in our industry, we offer unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and success. Apply Now to join our team! Visit dls.com/careers for more details.
