The Research Associate, under general supervision, is responsible for designing, planning, conducting, and coordinating molecular biology experiments for the laboratory's research projects, from field sample intake through nucleic acid extraction, sequencing, quality control, and data delivery. Evaluate, select, and apply established protocols for nucleic acid extraction, sequencing library preparation, and targeted molecular assays, including quantitative PCR, across environmental, animal, and food sample types, and assist with protocol optimization for new sample types.