Research Associate I

About the Role

JLSa2 Therapeutics, Inc. is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Research Associate I to support drug discovery programs through compound management, sample preparation, and routine protein science activities. This role will primarily be responsible for receiving, tracking, preparing, storing, and distributing research materials. The position will also provide hands-on support for routine protein science and biochemistry workflows.

Key Responsibilities

Compound and Sample Management

• Maintain accurate inventory and tracking of research compounds and biological materials.
• Receive incoming research materials and ensure proper documentation, labeling, storage, and entry into inventory systems.
• Prepare stock solutions, working solutions, and aliquots for internal research teams.
• Perform calculations related to concentrations, dilutions, and material requirements.
• Coordinate distribution of research materials while maintaining accurate records.
• Monitor inventory levels and proactively identify materials for replenishment.
• Maintain organized freezer, refrigerator, and laboratory storage systems.
• Help establish and improve systems for sample requests, aliquoting, tracking, and distribution.
• Maintain material traceability, including identity, concentration, formulation, storage conditions, and handling history.

Protein Science and Biochemistry Support

• Assist with routine protein sample preparation and characterization.
• Perform protein concentration measurements and sample normalization.
• Prepare buffers, reagents, and solutions used in protein science workflows.
• Support routine analytical techniques such as SDS-PAGE, chromatography sample preparation, and protein quantification.
• Assist with protein purification and sample-processing activities, including buffer exchange, dialysis, filtration, concentration, and aliquoting.
• Support preparation of samples for biochemical and biophysical characterization.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure commonly used reagents and consumables are adequately stocked.
• Follow established protocols and contribute to continuous improvement of laboratory procedures.

Documentation and Laboratory Operations

• Maintain complete and accurate records in electronic laboratory notebooks, inventory systems, and other internal databases.
• Ensure samples are appropriately labeled and traceable throughout their lifecycle.
• Coordinate with scientists across multiple functions to understand upcoming material requirements.
• Support general laboratory organization and contribute to a safe, efficient, and collaborative laboratory environment.
• Assist with additional laboratory activities as needed.

Requirements & Tech Stack

Core Skills & Experience

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage and accurately track large numbers of research samples.
• Comfortable performing laboratory calculations involving concentrations, dilutions, and molarity.
• Experience with basic laboratory techniques including pipetting, buffer preparation, weighing reagents, and preparation of stock solutions.
• Ability to carefully follow established procedures and maintain accurate documentation.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively across multiple scientific teams.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience with compound management, sample management, or laboratory inventory systems.
• Experience handling proteins or other biological research materials.
• Familiarity with protein characterization techniques such as SDS-PAGE, chromatography, and UV-based protein concentration measurements.
• Experience with protein purification, buffer exchange, centrifugal concentrators, or chromatography systems.
• Familiarity with electronic laboratory notebooks or scientific inventory/database systems.
• Experience working in a biotechnology or drug discovery environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline.
• 0–2 years of relevant laboratory experience in biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, or an academic laboratory.