Senior Research Associate, Molecular Biology

Summary:

Seeking a hands-on Senior Research Associate to advance, optimize, and execute molecular biology assays within a highly automated bioanalysis platform. This bench-focused role involves supporting method development, validation, and execution for preclinical and clinical programs, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure robust, high-throughput workflows.

Responsibilities:

• Perform and optimize molecular biology assays such as qPCR, ddPCR, nucleic acid extraction, and cell-based methods for bioanalysis programs.
• Assist in developing and validating immunoassay platforms, including ELISA and MSD/ECL, in partnership with assay development teams.
• Operate and maintain automated liquid handling and robotics systems, ensuring reliable assay execution.
• Translate manual protocols into automated workflows, collaborating on script design, quality control, and troubleshooting with automation engineers.
• Conduct rigorous sample handling, including matrix preparation, freeze-thaw studies, stability assessments, and parallelism testing.
• Maintain detailed, GLP-compliant laboratory records, including notebooks, run logs, and raw data documentation.
• Troubleshoot assay performance issues using systematic, data-driven approaches and escalate findings as needed.
• Manage reagents, including receipt, qualification, inventory tracking, and lot-to-lot comparability, and contribute to technical documentation and cross-functional process improvements.

Qualifications:

• BS or MS in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or related life sciences field.
• 3 to 6 years of hands-on laboratory experience, including direct work with molecular biology techniques such as qPCR, ddPCR, and nucleic acid-based methods.
• Strong technical skills in assay execution, troubleshooting, and data interpretation.
• Experience in a GLP or GxP regulated environment with knowledge of documentation standards.
• High attention to detail and systematic approach to experimental design and data recording.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced setting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; comfortable collaborating across scientific and engineering teams.
• Experience with automated liquid handling platforms (e.g., Hamilton, KingFisher) and robotics systems preferred.
• Background in immunoassay platforms (ELISA, MSD/ECL) preferred.
• Experience at a CRO, CDMO, or contract bioanalysis laboratory preferred.
• Familiarity with LIMS systems and electronic laboratory notebooks preferred.
• Exposure to method validation in accordance with ICH M10 or FDA bioanalytical guidance preferred.