Senior Research Associate

** Senior Research Associate*
* ** About Astellas*
* Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at

** Are you driven to make a real difference in the lives of patients?*
* We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact.

** Purpose & Scope*
* The Senior Research Associate, Cytogenomics, is responsible for executing advanced molecular workflows, with a significant focus on next-generation sequencing (NGS) applications, including bulk, single-cell, and targeted capture sequencing using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms. The role also supports workflow automation using liquid-handling systems and performs primary human cell culture using rigorous aseptic technique and established culture standards.

** Role and Responsibilities*
* + Execute Advanced NGS Workflows:
Perform bulk, single-cell, and targeted-capture sequencing workflows using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms, from sample preparation to library QC and through sequencing run completion.

+ Perform Molecular Biology Methods:
Execute nucleic acid extraction, quantification, quality assessment, library preparation, target enrichment, amplification, and other high-complexity molecular workflows.

+ Support Workflow Development and Optimization:
Evaluate, develop, optimize, and troubleshoot molecular and sequencing methods, strategies, and SOPs to improve assay performance, robustness, throughput, and reproducibility.

+ Implement Laboratory Automation:
Develop, execute, and maintain automated workflows using liquid handling platforms, including method programming, optimization, troubleshooting, and routine operation.

+ Perform Primary Human Cell Culture:
Culture, maintain, expand, and experimentally manipulate primary human cells using rigorous aseptic technique and established cell-culture standards.

+ Analyze and Communicate Experimental Results:
Familiarize and adhere to the organizational policy on data integrity. Review experimental and sequencing quality-control data, identify technical issues or trends, document findings, and communicate results clearly to project teams and scientific stakeholders.

+ Maintain Laboratory Readiness and Documentation:
Maintain accurate experimental records, follow established procedures, support instrument maintenance and laboratory organization, and contribute to the preparation and revision of protocols, methods, and technical reports.

** Required Qualifications*
* + BS with 8+ years or MS with 4+ years of relevant experience in molecular biology, genomics, cell biology, biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline; equivalent experience may be considered.

+ Significant hands-on experience performing next-generation sequencing workflows, including sample preparation, library construction, library quality control, and sequencing run execution.

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Experience with one or more NGS applications, such as bulk DNA or RNA sequencing, single-cell sequencing, or targeted-capture sequencing.

+ Hands-on experience operating Illumina sequencing platforms or comparable short-read sequencing technologies.

+ Strong technical proficiency in core molecular biology methods, including nucleic acid extraction, quantification, quality assessment, amplification, and library preparation.

+ Experience developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting complex molecular or sequencing workflows.

+ Experience operating liquid-handling systems or other laboratory automation platforms, including automated method execution and troubleshooting.

+ Hands-on experience culturing primary human cells using rigorous aseptic technique and established cell culture practices.

+ Demonstrated ability to interpret experimental and quality-control data, identify technical issues, maintain accurate experimental records, and communicate findings clearly.

+ Strong organizational, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, with the ability to manage multiple laboratory activities and work effectively within cross-functional scientific teams.

** Preferred Qualifications*
* + Hands-on experience with Oxford Nanopore sequencing platforms and long-read sequencing workflows.

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Experience with single-cell sequencing workflows, including cell or nuclei preparation, library construction, and sequencing quality control.

+ Experience designing and executing targeted-capture or enrichment-based sequencing workflows.

+ Experience programming, developing, or optimizing methods on liquid-handling platforms.

+

Experience with sequencing-based assay development, technology transfer, method…