Associate Scientist, Molecular Biology

Workplace: Onsite in Thousand Oaks, CA
Position Title: Associate Scientist, Ophthalmology Preclinical Research
Position Type: 6-month contract
Pay rate: $35-45/hour
Position Overview
Our client is an innovative genetic medicines company developing next-generation therapies for ocular and neurological diseases. Its research programs are focused on advancing targeted gene delivery technologies designed to address key limitations of conventional ocular gene therapy and enable less invasive treatment approaches.
The company is seeking a hands-on, detail-oriented Contract Associate Scientist to join its Ophthalmology Preclinical Research team. This role will support capsid screening, characterization, and candidate selection through molecular biology, bioanalytical, and cell-based assays.
The ideal candidate will be comfortable executing established protocols independently, troubleshooting experiments, analyzing data, and communicating results in a collaborative, fast-paced research environment.

• Execute and troubleshoot molecular biology, bioanalytical, and in vitro assays supporting ocular gene therapy research.
• Extract, quantify, and assess nucleic acids from cell-based and other biological samples.
• Perform qPCR and ddPCR assays to measure vector genomes, transgene expression, and related molecular endpoints.
• Conduct molecular cloning, plasmid construction, and DNA preparation.
• Perform ELISA and other protein-based assays to evaluate transgene expression and biological activity.
• Support cell-based studies, including aseptic technique, cell maintenance, passaging, and dose-response experiments.
• Collaborate with molecular biology, bioanalytics, and in vivo research teams to execute studies and advance program goals.
• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental results.
• Maintain complete and accurate electronic laboratory records and data documentation.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, reagents, and supplies while following applicable safety and quality procedures.

• Bachelor’s degree in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with several of the following: molecular cloning, qPCR, ddPCR, ELISA, nucleic acid extraction, and in situ hybridization techniques such as RNAscope.
• Ability to independently execute laboratory protocols, troubleshoot technical issues, and generate reproducible, high-quality data.
• Experience analyzing and presenting experimental results.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work on-site in a laboratory environment in Thousand Oaks, California.

• Experience with standard in vitro cell biology workflows.
• Familiarity with AAV biology, gene therapy, vector characterization, or capsid engineering.
• Experience supporting preclinical, translational, or biologics research programs.
• Familiarity with electronic laboratory notebooks, laboratory information management systems, and data visualization tools.
• Scientific curiosity, initiative, adaptability, and enthusiasm for learning new techniques.

This is an opportunity to contribute directly to the development of emerging ocular gene therapies while working alongside a multidisciplinary preclinical research team. The successful candidate will play an important role in generating the data that guide vector characterization and therapeutic candidate advancement.