Research Associate Jobs

Title: Research Associate
Duration: 4 months
Location: San Diego, CA 92121
 
The Sequencing Research & Genomics (SRG) group at client is currently seeking a conscientious, talented, and motivated molecular biologist to join a highly innovative and collaborative NGS technology development team. The advertised position provides an exciting opportunity for the candidate to develop novel genomics assays and platforms, to understand our pre-clinical and clinical-stage assets. As part of the larger Informatics and Predictive Sciences organization at client, the candidate will be in the unique position to engage with diverse scientific teams, utilizing enabling genomics tool to elucidate complex biological questions, with line of sight to benefit patient health. The position is for employment on a contract basis for 1 year, with potential to extend or convert.
 
Responsibilities
Lab operations include RNA/DNA extraction/purification, NGS library preparation & QC
Development and benchmarking of high-throughput NGS technologies (e.g., DNA-Seq and RNA-Seq assays)
Perform a wide variety of molecular biology techniques with minimal supervision and with an exceptional attention to details
Perform occasionally cell culture and compound treatment of cells, along with functional assays related to drug response in cell lines
Work independently and/or in collaboration with other team members on new assay and protocol development
Develop and edit protocols and standard operating procedures.
Generate, organize, and maintain meticulous records on all conducted experiments.
 
Skills/Knowledge preferred
MS or Bachelor degree with 2-3+ years of professional experience in molecular biology (preferred), biology, biotechnology, or biochemistry
Demonstrated expertise in molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction & purification, NGS library preparation & QC, PCR, qPCR, cloning, etc.
Extensive understanding of RNA-seq and DNA-seq NGS technologies, with a track record of utilizing such assays and an ability to troubleshoot the sequencing process end-to-end to improve NGS library quality
Strong understanding of theory behind techniques, proficient reasoning skills in experimental design and optimizing wet lab techniques, coupled with an exceptional attention to details
Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
Experience with single-cell sequencing workflows, such as 10x Genomics is a plus.
Experience with assays such as targeted sequencing, multiplex PCR, ddPCR is a plus.
Competence with standard cell isolation, cell culture, compound treatment, FACS, FF and FFPE tissue handling is a plus.
Proficiency with MS Office suite, and ability to analyze and present genomic data.
Strong planning and organizational skills and comfort with systems e.g., Confluence, JIRA, SharePoint systems
Commit to quality by rigorous and constant evaluation of own work.