• Senior Research Associate

    Actalent (Carlsbad, CA)


    Job Title: Research Associate

    Job Description

    We are seeking a Research Associate with a focus on qPCR optimization and assay development. This role involves working primarily on the bench, performing DNA extractions and PCR sequencing using blood samples. The position offers ample opportunities to learn molecular techniques and automate processes within a dynamic biotech environment.

    Responsibilities

    + Perform experiments and procedures in accordance with written protocols.

    + Assist in developing protocols and procedures.

    + Document, report, and present results of experiments and procedures.

    + Follow work instructions and SOPs as required by ISO quality management systems.

    + Assist in maintaining laboratory inventory and equipment.

    + Work collaboratively within the platform integration team and cross-functionally with other teams.

    + Contribute to the success of the entire project through effective problem-solving and communication.

    Essential Skills

    + 3-5 years of experience in applicable life sciences such as Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Chemistry, or Immunology.

    + Proficiency in nucleic acid techniques including DNA extraction, purification, quantification, qPCR, and PCR multiplex.

    + Experience with molecular biology sample preparation using magnetic particles.

    + Competency in data interpretation and analysis.

    + Knowledge of standard laboratory techniques such as aseptic technique.

    + Ability to work with human blood samples.

    Additional Skills & Qualifications

    + Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry, or other relevant field with 3-5 years of experience.

    + Master's Degree in Biology, Chemistry, or other relevant field with 1+ years industry experience.

    + Experience working in a BSL-2 environment with live organisms is a plus.

    + Competency with Microsoft Office Suite (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

    + Excellent organizational and project management skills.

    + Ability to plan and execute experiments with minimal assistance.

    Work Environment

    The role is part of a seven-member integration team within a larger group of seventeen professionals. The work environment includes administration, laboratory, and manufacturing settings. The position requires working in the lab 90% of the time with flexible hours, starting no later than 8:30 AM. The company culture is supportive, with kind and personable colleagues, and offers flexible work times to accommodate personal needs.

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $38.50 - $38.50/hr.

     

    Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

     

    • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

     

    Workplace Type

     

    This is a fully onsite position in CARLSBAD,CA.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    This position is anticipated to close on Aug 8, 2025.

    About Actalent

    Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

     

    The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

     

    If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.