Associate Scientist, Research & Development

Scientific

Contract Sep 28, 2026

Associate Scientist, Research & Development

Location: La Jolla, CA

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; occasional nights/weekends as needed

Hours: 40 hours per week

Position Type: Full-Time Contract

Category: Scientific / Laboratory

Viltis is seeking an Associate Scientist, Research & Development to support our client's oncology research team in La Jolla, California.

Working under the guidance of experienced scientists, this position will support laboratory experiments and research and development activities for next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based molecular diagnostic solutions. The Associate Scientist will conduct bench experiments, generate and analyze experimental data, maintain accurate laboratory documentation, and collaborate with project teams to advance research concepts through the product development pipeline.

• Participate in assay verification and validation studies supporting new product versions.
• Conduct bench-level experiments within assigned product and technology areas.
• Generate experimental data and accurately record, analyze, and interpret results.
• Operate scientific instrumentation and promptly communicate equipment or performance issues to appropriate personnel.
• Apply established laboratory methods and technologies according to approved procedures.
• Maintain complete and consistent laboratory notebooks in accordance with applicable legal, ISO, quality system, and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare reports and technical documentation describing experimental methods and results.
• Communicate experimental findings and project status to supervisors, scientists, and project leaders.
• Exercise sound judgment within established procedures and practices when determining appropriate actions.
• Collaborate with project team members to complete assignments and meet departmental and project objectives within expected timelines.
• Perform laboratory activities in a BSL-2 environment while following applicable biosafety requirements.
• Support and comply with applicable Quality Management System policies and procedures.
• Use laboratory equipment including microscopes, microtomes, blades, strainers, pipettes, and related scientific tools for extended periods as required.
• Follow applicable personal protective equipment and laboratory safety requirements when working with biological specimens, hazardous materials, centrifugation, lasers, and heating or freezing equipment.
• Perform physical laboratory activities requiring repetitive hand movements, fine motor skills, reaching, and lifting up to 20 pounds.
• Travel approximately 5% as required, which may include occasional overnight or weekend travel.

• Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Chemical Science, Physical Science, Biological Science, or a related field.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate laboratory documentation.
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively within scientific project teams.
• Ability to work in a BSL-2 laboratory environment and comply with applicable safety and PPE requirements.
• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Current authorization to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.

• At least 1 year of related laboratory, research, or scientific experience.
• Relevant scientific or laboratory internship experience.
• Experience conducting bench experiments in a research and development environment.
• Familiarity with assay verification and validation activities.
• Exposure to molecular diagnostics, NGS, or related life sciences technologies.

Viltis offers eligible employees access to a comprehensive benefits package designed to support health, well-being, and professional success.

Viltis is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Internal Posting Reference: ABOJP