Senior Research Associate (Oncology Assay Development)

TL;DR

Senior Research Associate (Oncology Assay Development): Designing and optimizing NGS and cfDNA workflows to build liquid biopsy tests for oncology with an accent on clinical implementation and analytical rigor. Focus on executing experimental workflows, improving assay precision, and driving technology transfer to CLIA-regulated operations.

Location: San Carlos, CA

Salary: $87,300 – $109,100 USD

Company

Global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing specializing in oncology, women’s health, and organ health.

What you will do

• Design and execute experiments for oncology assay development, optimization, and validation.
• Perform cfDNA extraction, library preparation, target enrichment, and sequencing workflows.
• Analyze NGS data and develop methods to improve the performance and precision of clinical assays.
• Collaborate directly with bioinformatics, biostatistics, automation engineering, and operations teams.
• Drive technology transfer to CLIA-regulated operations through protocol improvements and training.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously and maintain detailed documentation in electronic notebooks.

Requirements

• B.S. degree in molecular biology or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 to 4 years of industry experience in an assay development department.
• Hands-on experience with DNA manipulation, PCR, qPCR, and analysis tools (LabChip, BioAnalyzer, Tapestation).
• Proficiency in NGS workflows and interpreting quality metrics (Q30, coverage, on-target rates).
• Experience operating automation platforms such as Hamilton, Bravo, BioMek, or KingFisher.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Pregnancy and baby bonding leave.
• Commuter benefits and additional wellness programs.