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).