Research Associate I

Job Title: Assay Development & Bioinformatics (Research Associate I)

Location: 10210 Genetic Center Dr., San Diego, CA 92121

Duration: 06 months (possibilities for extension or conversion)

Shift: 1st Shift

Position Summary:

• The Research Associate I supports cross-functional molecular diagnostics research projects through the execution of laboratory experiments, generation of high-quality data, and maintenance of laboratory operations. Working closely with Assay Development and Bioinformatics teams, this individual performs molecular biology workflows, supports high-throughput screening activities, organizes experimental data, and contributes to data-driven assay development efforts.
• The position serves as a bridge between laboratory experimentation and computational analysis, ensuring the generation and organization of high-quality data to support assay design and optimization activities. This position is ideal for an early-career scientist interested in molecular diagnostics, assay development, laboratory automation, and data-centric research.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform molecular biology and assay development experiments following established protocols and study plans.
• Prepare reagents, controls, oligonucleotides, standards, and biological samples for assay development activities.
• Execute PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR, and other nucleic acid-based workflows using laboratory instrumentation and automated systems.
• Support high-throughput screening studies through plate preparation, sample processing, and operation of laboratory automation platforms.
• Collect, organize, document, and summarize experimental data in laboratory notebooks and electronic data management systems.
• Assist with data compilation, quality checks, and preparation of datasets and associated metadata for downstream analysis.
• Communicate experimental results, observations, and technical issues to project team members and supervisors.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and instrumentation as needed.
• Manage laboratory inventory and support routine laboratory operations.
• Follow established SOPs, laboratory safety requirements, and quality standards.
• Collaborate effectively with scientists and bioinformaticians to support project goals and timelines.

Qualifications Required:

• B.S. or B.A. in Molecular Biology, Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Genetics, or a related life science discipline.
• 0-2 years of laboratory experience in academic research, biotechnology, diagnostics, or related fields.
• Basic understanding of molecular biology techniques, including PCR and qPCR.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Word and PPT.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred:

• Experience with molecular diagnostic assays.
• Experience with automated liquid handling systems or other laboratory automation platforms.
• Familiarity with high-throughput screening workflows.
• Exposure to biological data analysis, data visualization, or bioinformatics concepts.
• Experience working in a regulated laboratory environment.

Intake Notes:

Business Need:

• Support AI/ML-assisted oligonucleotide design initiative.
• Generate high-quality experimental data to support molecular assay development.
• Partner closely with Assay Development and Bioinformatics teams.

Top Required Skills:

• Molecular biology techniques (PCR, qPCR, ddPCR, nucleic acid extraction)
• Experimental troubleshooting and data interpretation
• Collaboration within cross-functional scientific teams

Must-Have Qualifications:

• BS/BA in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related life science field
• Hands-on PCR/qPCR experience
• Molecular biology laboratory experience
• Experience analyzing and interpreting experimental data
• Strong documentation and organizational skills
• Statistical analysis using JMP or similar software

Preferred Qualifications:

• Molecular diagnostics experience
• Laboratory automation/liquid handling systems
• High-throughput screening experience
• Python, R, JMP, or bioinformatics exposure
• Oligonucleotide design experience
• Candidate Knockouts
• No qPCR experience
• No molecular biology lab experience
• Cannot explain troubleshooting examples
• No data analysis/interpretation experience

Team & Environment:

• Small collaborative team (5-6 scientists and research associates).