Research Associate

Job Description

The Research Associate will work primarily at the bench, performing DNA extractions from blood samples. This role involves regular PCR and sequencing (n-point PCR or r-PCR) tasks, and the use of aseptic techniques. The ideal candidate will follow Standard Operating Procedures

(SOPs) meticulously and maintain organized documentation. The position offers opportunities to learn molecular techniques and their automation, contributing to various project stages and working closely with specialized professionals in the biotech field.

Responsibilities

• Perform DNA extractions from blood samples.

• Conduct PCR, sequencing (n-point PCR or r-PCR), and utilize aseptic techniques.

• Follow SOPs and maintain accurate and organized documentation.

• Create and manage bench controls.

• Collaborate with team members to ensure project success.

• Contribute to assay development and prototype design & testing.

• Adapt to varying workloads and deliver consistent results.

Essential Skills

• GLP (Good Laboratory Practice)

• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

• DNA extraction and purification

• Aseptic techniques

• Sequencing (n-point PCR or r-PCR)

• Ability to work with human blood samples

• BS in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Chemistry, or Immunology

• 1-3 years of experience in applicable life sciences

• Competency with Microsoft Office Suite (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with nucleic acid techniques (DNA quantification, qPCR, PCR multiplex)

• Experience with molecular biology sample preparation using magnetic particles

• Data interpretation and analysis skills

• Experience working in a BSL-2 environment with live organisms

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of CARLSBAD, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $26.00 - $33.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in CARLSBAD,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 30, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.