Associate #26-26568

About the Role

The hiring manager is seeking an entry-level laboratory associate with foundational molecular biology knowledge, hands-on laboratory experience, and a genuine interest in developing a long-term scientific career. This is a 36-month contract position.

Key Responsibilities

• Support next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows and provide cross-functional laboratory support for yeast culture maintenance.
• Prepare, quality-check, and troubleshoot sequencing libraries.
• Support sequencing runs.
• Maintain accurate sample and project records.
• Perform routine molecular biology techniques, including accurate pipetting, PCR, DNA cleanup, and bead-based purification.
• Prepare sequencing libraries and develop an understanding of the library preparation process.
• Assess DNA and library quality using DNA quantification methods and TapeStation or gel-based analysis.
• Support sequencing workflows by preparing and loading samples onto sequencing instruments.
• Follow procedures to prevent sample mix-ups and cross-contamination.
• Recognize unexpected results, document observations, and escalate issues appropriately.
• Maintain accurate sample identification, project and sample tracking, and electronic laboratory notebook records.
• Use tools such as Benchling, Excel, or other electronic tracking systems.
• Perform yeast cell culture or other cell culture activities using appropriate aseptic technique.
• Maintain and operate laboratory equipment, perform routine setup and care, and report maintenance issues.
• Work with laboratory automation and robotics.
• Follow written procedures and safety requirements.
• Complete assigned training.
• Maintain an organized work area.
• Prioritize work across multiple samples and deadlines while maintaining accuracy and reliability.
• Coordinate the receipt, organization, tracking, and prioritization of incoming samples.
• Review quality-control and sequencing reports, flagging results or issues for follow-up.
• Communicate and coordinate with across teams to support shared projects.
• Attend project meetings to stay current on incoming work, priorities, and timelines.
• Assist with general lab upkeep as needed.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Standard daytime business hours, approximately 8 AM-5 PM, with flexibility for earlier or later start times.
• Foundational molecular biology knowledge.
• Hands-on laboratory experience.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and scientifically curious.
• Comfortable supporting high-volume DNA sample processing, sample tracking, and automated laboratory workflows.
• Strong communication, adaptability, and the ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining accurate documentation.
• Understand the reasoning behind laboratory procedures.
• Demonstrate learning agility and eagerness to grow professionally.
• Solid foundation in molecular biology and ability to learn new laboratory methods on the job.
• Dependable, with the ability to stay calm while managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Take initiative, ask questions when instructions or results are unclear, and work collaboratively.
• Experience with NGS, library preparation, DNA quantification, TapeStation or gel analysis, cell culture, sample tracking, or laboratory automation is beneficial.
• Interest in learning laboratory automation and robotics is encouraged.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree OR
• Associate's degree and 2 years of experience OR
• High school diploma / GED and 4 years of experience

Must Have Skill Sets

• Scientific acumen and critical thinking: Demonstrated understanding of experimental purpose, method following, results analysis, and evidence-based conclusions through research or coursework. Experience with molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, or sequencing is especially relevant.
• Efficient, detail-oriented execution: Proven ability to complete hands-on work accurately while managing multiple samples, experiments, or deadlines. Experience with repetitive protocols, high sample volumes, careful recordkeeping, or meeting time-sensitive project milestones.
• Learning agility and initiative: Demonstrated ability to learn a new technique or instrument, troubleshoot an unexpected result, take ownership of a project, or contribute beyond assigned tasks.