Research Associate I/II (Molecular Biology)

TL;DR

Research Associate I/II (Molecular Biology): Developing and validating clinical-grade NGS-based assays for early detection of human disease with an accent on DNA analysis and sample preparation. Focus on characterizing automated assays, collaborating with computational biologists, and optimizing high-throughput lab processes.

Location: Onsite in Brisbane, California

Salary: $37.68 - $46.69 per hour

Company

Biotech company focused on early detection and intervention in human disease through advanced assay technologies.

What you will do

• Develop DNA assays using molecular biology, nucleic-acid biochemistry, and next-generation sequencing (NGS).
• Characterize automated assays by generating and analyzing experimental data.
• Collaborate with computational biologists to analyze data and draw study conclusions.
• Present experimental results to cross-functional teams.
• Troubleshoot assay performance and design improvement experiments.
• Optimize lab processes to enhance end-to-end test performance in a high-throughput environment.

Requirements

• Bachelors with 1+ years of industry experience or a Masters in molecular biology or a related field.
• Hands-on experience in NGS assay development including sample preparation, library preparation, target capture, and sequencing.
• Biological understanding of human cell-free nucleic acids, single-cell analysis, immunology, or cancer biology.
• Ability to perform manual pipetting with high precision and accuracy.
• Strong attention to detail and proactive communication skills.

Nice to have

• Experience in regulated laboratory environments such as CLIA, GLP/GCLP, or IVD development.
• Experience with automated liquid handlers and microfluidics.
• Proficiency with ELN (electronic lab notebook) and LIMS (lab information management system).
• Knowledge of scientific programming languages such as Python or R.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive base hourly rate and equity options.
• Eligibility for cash bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, financial, and other corporate benefits.
• Commitment to diversity and equal-opportunity employment.