Research Associate (Molecular Biology, Next-Generation Sequencing and Operations Management)

Job Description:

• The Sequencing Research & Genomics (SRG) team is seeking a dedicated, talented, and motivated molecular biologist to support our Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) projects within the Protein Homeostasis Thematic Research Center (TRC).
• This role involves a blend of hands-on laboratory work and project management, including tracking NGS collaborative research inquiries and organizing supporting information to facilitate lead target discovery and assay development.
• The successful candidate will have the unique opportunity to collaborate with diverse cross-functional scientific teams and contribute to groundbreaking drug discoveries that directly impact patient health.
• Ensure smooth day-to-day Lab operations, including RNA/DNA extraction/purification, NGS library preparation & QCs, and loading sequencers (e.g., Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, etc.)
• Track projects and develop new project organizational guidelines as part our sequencing pipelines
• Review sequencing run and data quality control statistics and documenting them for future reference
• Provide technical and project-level guidance to internal and external stakeholders
• Generate, organize, and maintain meticulous records of all experiments conducted
• Work independently or with supervision from team members on new assay and protocol development

Requirements :

• Bachelor degree with 0-3 years of professional experience in molecular biology, biotechnology, or biochemistry required
• Experience with Electronic Lab Notebooks and project management tools like JIRA and Confluence
• Demonstrated experience in managing external vendors and CROs for NGS or other research services
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction & purification, NGS library preparation & QC, PCR, qPCR, cloning, etc.
• Strong understanding of theory behind techniques, with proficient reasoning skills in experimental design and optimization of wet lab techniques, coupled with exceptional attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral
• Strong team player with a proactive and positive attitude
• Ability to use technical skills and effective time management to perform work efficiently and meet project timelines
• Exposure to cell biology techniques such as cell culture, along with functional assays for drug responses is a plus
• Curriculum Vitae
• Molecular Biology
• Next- Generation Sequencing

California Fair Chance Act:

Synectics Inc. will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act. You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if Synectics Inc. is concerned about conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. Find out more about the Fair Chance Act by visiting calcivilrights.ca.gov/fair-chance-act/.

Benefits:

Healthcare Insurance: Synectics offers eligible employees and their dependents healthcare coverage through BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois. Eligibility begins on the 1st day of the calendar month following 60 days of continuous full time employment with Synectics. Premiums are subsidized by Synectics.

Dental Insurance: Synectics offers eligible employees and their dependents a dental plan through MetLife. Eligibility begins on the 1st day of the calendar month following 60 days of continuous full time employment with Synectics.

Vision Insurance : Synectics offers eligible employees vision insurance through VSP. Eligibility begins on the 1st day of the calendar month following 60 days of continuous full time employment with Synectics.401(k) Plan: The Synectics Inc. Investment Savings Retirement Plan. Synectics offers all employees who are 21 years of age or older the opportunity to invest in the 401(k) Plan on the first enrollment date that is at least 30 days after employment begins. Enrollment dates are each January 1st, April 1st, July 1st, and October 1st.

Technical Certification Bonus: Synectics is pleased to award its employees a bonus of up to $500 for an approved professional certification. In determining the bonus amount, Synectics will consider the cost of the test(s) for any certification relating to your current position, achieved during your employment with us. Only one Certification Bonus per calendar year may be awarded per employee. Only current, active employees will be eligible to receive this bonus. It will be awarded 90 days after the Synectics office has received documentation confirming the successful completion of the certification.

Synectics is an equal opportunity employer.