Research Associate - I

Job Title: Research Associate, Research Discovery

Location: Philadelphia, PA (Onsite, 5 Days a week)

Duration: 6 Months

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our In Vivo Discovery team focused on developing targeted vectors to reprogram cells in vivo for the treatment of cancer. The Research Associate, Research Discovery role is an entry-level scientific professional who performs hands-on laboratory experiments as part of a research team. Working under close supervision from experienced scientists, this individual executes routine experimental procedures and simple to moderately complex assays, following established protocols and good laboratory practices to ensure reliable results. The Research Associate systematically collects and analyzes data with guidance, maintains clear and thorough documentation of experiments, and communicates findings to support ongoing projects. This role emphasizes building core laboratory skills and scientific understanding, adaptability in learning new techniques, and collaboration within a team-oriented research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and perform assigned laboratory experiments of simple to moderate complexity under close supervision, following established protocols and procedures to obtain reliable results.
• Execute routine experimental tasks accurately and consistently after proper training, adhering to good laboratory practices and all safety guidelines.
• Identify and troubleshoot basic technical issues during experiments, implementing minor adjustments independently and seeking guidance from experienced scientists for more complex problems.
• Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data to recognize trends or outcomes, contributing to data interpretation with input from experienced team members.
• Maintain detailed and organized laboratory records (electronic laboratory notebooks, data logs) to document procedures, observations, and results clearly and thoroughly. Assist in preparing technical summaries or presentations to communicate findings to the team and supervisors.
• Work collaboratively with research team members and communicate progress regularly to supervisors and project leads, ensuring alignment with project goals and incorporating feedback into ongoing work.
• Adhere to all laboratory safety protocols and quality standards, helping to maintain a clean, safe, and compliant lab environment.
• Demonstrate adaptability by learning new experimental techniques or operating new instrumentation with guidance and continuously improve skills through feedback and practice.
• Contribute to a positive, team-oriented lab culture by being reliable and proactive, offering assistance to colleagues and helping to train new team members on basic laboratory procedures when needed.
• Occasional weekend work might be required.

Required Qualifications

• Solid foundation in biological sciences and basic laboratory techniques, with the ability to perform routine experimental procedures and follow protocols with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Familiarity with basic data analysis methods; able to process experimental data and use common software tools (e.g., spreadsheets, graphing programs) to summarize and visualize results.
• Excellent documentation and record-keeping skills to maintain clear and thorough electronic lab notebooks (Benchling) and records of experiments, observations, and outcomes.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal) to effectively report experimental results and observations to team members and supervisors.
• Knowledge of and commitment to laboratory safety procedures and good laboratory practices, ensuring quality and compliance in all experimental activities.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and meet project deadlines.
• Collaborative working style and a positive team-oriented attitude, with a willingness to work closely with colleagues, share knowledge, and contribute to team goals.
• Eagerness to learn and adapt quickly to new techniques or equipment, with an openness to feedback and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Experience and Education

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related life science field (required).
• 0-2 years of hands-on laboratory research experience in an academic or industry setting (this may include internships or co-op experience).
• Experience with molecular biology is suggested.
• Prior experience with culturing bacteria and bacteria transformation is preferred
• Prior experience with plasmid cloning, amplification, and analysis is preferred.
• Experience in a collaborative research environment (academic lab, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical setting) is a plus, demonstrating ability to work effectively in team-driven projects.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to high quality data generation.
• Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, Prism, and other programs to create and distribute reports and key information.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work onsite in a laboratory environment.