Research Associate – Assay Development

Ashland, VA (On-site)

Initial 6-month engagement with possibility of conversion

Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm

$30/hr

A growing organization in the life sciences space is seeking a Research Associate to contribute to ongoing laboratory research initiatives. This individual will play a key role in supporting experimental workflows, generating high-quality data, and assisting in the advancement of assay-related projects.

• Carry out laboratory experiments and support ongoing research projects
• Assist in the development and refinement of assay workflows
• Prepare solutions, reagents, and materials needed for daily lab activities
• Record experimental observations and organize results in a clear, structured manner
• Interpret data and share insights with internal team members
• Ensure proper use and upkeep of laboratory instruments
• Follow internal guidelines for safety, documentation, and lab practices
• Provide support for general laboratory functions, including sample-related tasks

• Bachelor’s degree with several years of hands-on lab experience, or a Master’s degree with relevant experience
• Background working with biological or biochemical techniques in a lab setting
• Ability to manage experiments with limited oversight
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Comfortable handling data and using basic software tools (e.g., Excel, PowerPoint)
• Effective communication and ability to work within a team

• Experience working with protein-focused or antibody-based techniques
• Exposure to clinical, diagnostic, or regulated lab environments
• Familiarity with improving or troubleshooting experimental methods

• Role requires extended time performing benchwork and routine lab tasks
• May involve handling biological materials and working in temperature-controlled storage conditions
• Schedule flexibility available depending on candidate availability

As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources.

Please note:

The following benefits reflect Kelly's general offerings. Eligibility may vary by assignment, location, and job type.

• Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability.
• As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account.
• In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan.

Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce.

Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Kelly may use AI-powered tools during the recruitment and hiring process. For full details, including how Kelly uses AI, your…