Senior Research Associate

Research Associate - QC / Molecular Biology

Position Overview

We are seeking a Research Associate to support quality control (QC) assay execution within our Sample Preparation / QC Development group. This role is highly execution-focused and centers on running established molecular biology assays in support of R&D and manufacturing

activities.

Key Responsibilities

Assay Execution

+ Perform routine molecular biology assays including PCR and qPCR.

+ Execute established QC workflows with high precision and consistency.

+ Conduct sample preparation including DNA/RNA handling and pipetting.

+ Perform magnetic separations and incubation-based steps.

+ Maintain strict adherence to SOPs and quality standards.

Data Analysis

+ Analyze and interpret qPCR data with minimal supervision.

+ Document and report results clearly and accurately.

+ Utilize data analysis tools (e.g., JMP or similar; training provided if needed).

Laboratory Operations & Maintenance

+ Maintain a clean, organized, and contamination-controlled lab environment.

+ Follow proper PPE and cleanroom protocols to minimize environmental contamination (bacterial and fungal DNA).

+ Manage reagent inventory, including:

+ Lot tracking and traceability

+ Stocking and supply management

+ Organization of lab materials

General Workflow

+ Daily bench work (~3-3.5 hours assay execution)

+ PCR runtime (~1 hour)

+ Additional responsibilities:

+ Data analysis

+ Inventory management

+ Lab cleaning and organization

Required Qualifications

+ Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, or related field.

+ 3+ years of industry experience (QC, manufacturing, or similar environment).

+ Hands-on experience with:

+ PCR and qPCR

+ DNA/RNA handling

+ Pipetting and basic molecular biology techniques

+ Demonstrated ability to follow SOPs and maintain high-quality standards.

+ Strong contamination awareness and aseptic technique.

Preferred Qualifications

+ Experience in QC or manufacturing environments.

+ Familiarity with environmental contamination control practices.

+

Experience with reagent tracking, inventory management, and lab organization.

+ Exposure to JMP or similar data analysis tools.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of CARLSBAD, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $33.00 - $40.00/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.

Final date to receive applications

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 30, 2026.

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 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a Clearly Rated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

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 process due to a disability, please email…