Research Associate Resource – Molecular Biology & Cell- Assay-SUB-AKH

Position: Research Associate Support Resource – Molecular Biology & Cell-based Assay-SUB-AKH-003
Contract (mandatory): 12 months + (possible extension) Small

Description:

The contractor Research Associate will support the Analytical Development team within the Tech Dev department by developing, optimizing, and executing molecular biology and cell-based assays. The role involves hands-on laboratory work, data analysis, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration in a hypothesis-driven R&D environment at the South San Francisco facility.

Job Responsibilities:

Develop, optimize, and execute analytical assays for proteins, DNA, adeno-associated viral (AAV) nanoparticles, and related cell-based assays.
• Perform routine testing using established SOPs and applicable regulatory guidelines, including ddPCR/qPCR, ELISA, and mammalian cell-based assays.
• Support assay transfer to internal partners (QC, testing, and research teams), including documentation, troubleshooting, and method comparability.
• Analyze experimental data, assess data quality, determine applicability to project goals, draw conclusions, and make data-driven recommendations.
• Author, review, and revise experimental procedures, protocols, and technical reports.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant records of analytical development activities in laboratory notebooks, ELN, and data systems.
• Summarize and present experimental results in meetings and participate in report writing.
• Contribute to a collaborative laboratory environment by sharing technical insights, supporting cross-functional projects, and improving workflows.

Skills:

Proficiency in mammalian cell-based assays and PCR-based assays (qPCR, ddPCR).
• Hands-on experience performing quantitative assays such as ELISA for characterization of proteins, nucleic acids, viruses, or other biological products.
• Strong experience with sterile technique and mammalian cell culture, including cell maintenance, expansion, characterization, and banking.
• Working knowledge of molecular biology techniques including DNA/RNA/protein isolation, cDNA synthesis, RT-PCR, qPCR, and digital PCR.
• Ability to independently plan, execute, troubleshoot, and document experiments in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and commitment to generating high-quality, reproducible data.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for presenting technical data to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and standard data analysis and documentation tools. Preferred

Skills:

• Experience working with Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV).
• Experience in analytical method development and assay transfer.
• Experience in basic statistical analysis.

Qualification:

B.S. in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.
• 1+ years of industry experience in pharmaceutical or biotechnology environments.