POSITION SUMMARY:

As a Research Associate 2, you will be part of a high performance, cross-disciplinary team developing new molecular and genetic based tests. You will design studies under guidance and be hands on in the lab to execute experiments to support project advancement. Makes detailed observations, analyzes data, and interprets results.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

You will work primarily with R&D Scientific Operations assisting Associates/Scientists in various lab duties. Responsibilities will include:

• Execute experiments in the lab using a variety of molecular biology and general laboratory techniques as directed to prepare samples for Next Generation Sequencing
• Analyze experimental data, derive conclusions, and discuss results with a multidisciplinary team including biologists, bioinformaticians, statisticians, software engineers and managers
• Maintain a detailed and organized lab notebook. Contribute insight toward experimental findings and trouble-shoot laboratory processes and protocols
• Receive and process laboratory specimens following the standard methods and procedures with attention to detail
• Track samples with use of LIMS, database queries, and advanced excel techniques; verify that correct specimens are being processed and analyzed
• Be flexible to handle multiple tasks and priorities, and perform other duties as assigned
• Maintain accurate and well-organized laboratory records, worksheets and notebooks
• Summarize data in spreadsheets, graphs and presentations
• Adhere to environmental, health and safety (EHS) guidelines and good laboratory practices (GLP)
• Employee must complete training relating to HIPAA/PHI privacy, General Policies and Procedure Compliance training and security training as soon as possible but not later than the first 30 days of hire

QUALIFICATIONS:

• BS/BA in a biological science or equivalent
• Minimum of 2 years Molecular Biology laboratory experience required

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Hands-on experience with nucleic acid techniques (DNA manipulation, PCR, qPCR, DNA quantitation, and analysis by NanoDrop, Tapestation, or BioAnalyzer)
• Experience with PCR library preparation for next generation sequencing and sequencing platforms (NovaSeq, HiSeq, MiSeq.)
• DNA isolation from biological samples
• Experience with LIMS and sample tracking software (preferred)
• Experience with laboratory robotics platforms (optional)
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and priorities
• Effective communication skills, including gathering information from different teams, communicating with suppliers, writing protocols, and summarizing results in a report or presentation
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office suite of programs, especially Word and Excel applications
• Self-driven and strong team player with proven track record

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Duties are typically performed in a laboratory setting
• This position requires the ability to perform repetitive motions during pipetting and samples processing
• This position requires the ability to use a computer keyboard, communicate over the telephone and read printed material
• Duties may require working outside normal working hours (evenings and weekends) at times