Research Associate (Entry level - PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR)

Job Title: Research Associate I

Location: 10210 Genetic Center Dr., San Diego, CA 92121

Duration: 06 months (possibilities for extension or conversion)

Shift: 1st Shift

**Pay Rate: $26/hr on w2**

Position Summary:

•       The Research Associate I supports cross-functional molecular diagnostics research projects through the execution of laboratory experiments, generation of high-quality data, and maintenance of laboratory operations. Working closely with Assay Development and Bioinformatics teams, this individual performs molecular biology workflows, supports high-throughput screening activities, organizes experimental data, and contributes to data-driven assay development efforts.

•       The position serves as a bridge between laboratory experimentation and computational analysis, ensuring the generation and organization of high-quality data to support assay design and optimization activities. This position is ideal for an early-career scientist interested in molecular diagnostics, assay development, laboratory automation, and data-centric research.

Key Responsibilities:

•             Perform molecular biology and assay development experiments following established protocols and study plans.

•             Prepare reagents, controls, oligonucleotides, standards, and biological samples for assay development activities.

•             Execute PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR, and other nucleic acid-based workflows using laboratory instrumentation and automated systems.

•             Support high-throughput screening studies through plate preparation, sample processing, and operation of laboratory automation platforms.

•             Collect, organize, document, and summarize experimental data in laboratory notebooks and electronic data management systems.

•             Assist with data compilation, quality checks, and preparation of datasets and associated metadata for downstream analysis.

•             Communicate experimental results, observations, and technical issues to project team members and supervisors.

•             Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and instrumentation as needed.

•             Manage laboratory inventory and support routine laboratory operations.

•             Follow established SOPs, laboratory safety requirements, and quality standards.

•             Collaborate effectively with scientists and bioinformaticians to support project goals and timelines.

Qualifications Required:

•             B.S. or B.A. in Molecular Biology, Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Genetics, or a related life science discipline.

•             0-2 years of laboratory experience in academic research, biotechnology, diagnostics, or related fields.

•             Basic understanding of molecular biology techniques, including PCR and qPCR.

•             Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Word and PPT.

•             Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred:

•             Experience with molecular diagnostic assays.

•             Experience with automated liquid handling systems or other laboratory automation platforms.

•             Familiarity with high-throughput screening workflows.

•             Exposure to biological data analysis, data visualization, or bioinformatics concepts.

•             Experience working in a regulated laboratory environment.

Intake Notes:

Business Need:

•             Support AI/ML-assisted oligonucleotide design initiative.

•             Generate high-quality experimental data to support molecular assay development.

•             Partner closely with Assay Development and Bioinformatics teams.

Top Required Skills:

•             Molecular biology techniques (PCR, qPCR, ddPCR, nucleic acid extraction)

•             Experimental troubleshooting and data interpretation

•             Collaboration within cross-functional scientific teams

Must-Have Qualifications:

•             BS/BA in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related life science field

•             Hands-on PCR/qPCR experience

•             Molecular biology laboratory experience

•             Experience analyzing and interpreting experimental data

•             Strong documentation and organizational skills

•             Statistical analysis using JMP or similar software

Preferred Qualifications:

•             Molecular diagnostics experience

•             Laboratory automation/liquid handling systems

•             High-throughput screening experience

•             Python, R, JMP, or bioinformatics exposure

•             Oligonucleotide design experience

•             Candidate Knockouts

•             No qPCR experience

•             No molecular biology lab experience

•             Cannot explain troubleshooting examples

•             No data analysis/interpretation experience

Team & Environment:

•             Small collaborative team (5-6 scientists and research associates).

Select Source International (SSI) is a distinguished workforce solutions provider with nearly 25 years of experience delivering top-tier staffing, recruiting, and managed services. Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, SSI has established itself as a global leader, serving a broad, diverse clientele across industries with unwavering dedication and excellence.

As a trusted partner, we bring a wealth of expertise and best-in-business differentiators to comprehensively support your evolving workforce needs. SSI is ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and SOC 2 Type II certified, underscoring our strict commitment to quality, environmental responsibility, and data security. Our industry-leading capabilities are further validated by numerous awards in sustainability and supplier diversity.