Research associate Milwaukee, WI

Research Associate I – Job Description

Location:

Global Water Center, 247 West Freshwater Way, Milwaukee, WI

Job Type: Full-Time | In-Person

Salary: $50,000 per year

The Research Technician supports laboratory operations by performing routine scientific tasks and experiments under supervision. This entry-level position is ideal for individuals with a background in biology, biotechnology, or a related field who are eager to gain hands‑on experience in a fast‑paced biotech environment.

Diverge TSL is a mission‑driven biotech company that spun out from academia in 2022. We collaborate with biotech and pharmaceutical companies worldwide to support drug development through both pre‑clinical and clinical trial‑level experiments. Many of our partners are working to cure rare diseases, and their missions inspire us to work hard, fast, and smart.

We’re a small, tight‑knit team that values curiosity, teamwork, and efficiency. If you're detail‑oriented, enthusiastic, and ready to learn, we’ll train you in everything else you need to succeed.

• Maintain detailed and accurate electronic lab notebooks
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards, and safety and quality guidelines
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment
• Monitor and manage inventory
• Prepare reagents, buffers, and lab equipment for experiments
• Perform laboratory procedures and experiments using animal and human tissues under the guidance of senior researchers
• Eventual performance of western blot experiments using traditional western blot and capillary western blot approaches
• Support digital pathology efforts by scanning fluorescence and brightfield slides using a motorized microscope
• Deploy automated image analysis algorithms
• Perform manual editing of binary layers in whole‑section images
• Complete and maintain log files and documentation associated with image analysis

• Experience in molecular biology and/or histology
• Experience in a research lab or biotech setting
• Must currently reside in commutable distance to Milwaukee, WI
• Demonstrated ability and commitment to work collaboratively within a team, including taking direction and feedback from managers and colleagues with professionalism, curiosity, and a growth‑oriented mindset
• Eagerness to be an active part of a close‑knit team; must be comfortable collaborating, asking questions, and contributing to a positive team dynamic. Working in isolation or avoiding team interaction is not aligned with our company culture
• Bachelor’s degree in scientific discipline
• At least 1 year of laboratory experience (internships or volunteer work may count)
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and common lab software

• Relevant certifications (not required, but a plus)

• Monday–Friday, 9:30 AM–5:30 PM
• 40 hours/week
• No nights or weekends

• Annual salary: $55,000
• Annual performance‑based bonus
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health savings and flexible spending accounts
• 401(k) with company match
• Short‑ and long‑term disability
• Life insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development support
• Friendly, collaborative team environment

• A 90‑day trial period will begin upon hire to assess fit and performance
• During this time, either party may end employment with or without notice
• Upon successful completion, the role may transition to regular employment

• Reports to:
  
  Julie Tetzlaff (COO) and Laboratory Manager
• Direct Reports:
  None
• Collaborates with:
  All company staff, no exceptions

• Complexity:
  Requires initiative and occasional independent judgment
• Impact:
  Accuracy is critical; errors may have material consequences
• Autonomy:
  Expected to work independently within clearly defined expectations
• Confidentiality:
  Will handle confidential data and is expected to maintain discretion

• Standing or walking for extended periods
• Occasional lifting of moderate weight materials

Laboratory setting with occasional exposure to chemicals, biological materials, and temperature variations. Safety equipment and training will be provided.

• Must be able to commute to Milwaukee, WI 53204
• Must relocate prior to start date if not already local