Applied Research Associate

Job Overview You’ll explore how biology could become a new substrate for computing, storage, and security. In this role, you will run hands‑on experiments, translate results into clear implications, and help leaders make informed technology roadmap decisions. Role As an Associate Molecular Biologist in a corporate strategic foresight team, you will design and execute experiments that evaluate frontier biotechnology concepts with potential computing and security applications. You will pair strong lab execution with clear, decision‑ready communication for senior stakeholders and help shape internal perspectives on emerging areas such as DNA‑based storage, molecular computation, and molecular cryptography. Job Responsibilities Design and run experiments to assess feasibility, constraints, and performance of molecular computing and DNA‑based storage concepts Define hypotheses, success metrics, and test plans aligned to long‑horizon technology questions and decision needs Translate experimental outcomes and biological concepts into concise, executive‑ready readouts and recommendations Conduct horizon scanning across academic and industry research to identify weak signals, opportunity areas, and emerging risks Contribute to scenario development, opportunity briefs, and risk/ethics considerations related to biological and computational convergence Operate day‑to‑day lab activities, including inventory, consumables planning, and equipment readiness Create, maintain, and improve standard operating procedures and version‑controlled protocols Maintain rigorous documentation, including experiment logs, reproducibility notes, and appropriate chain‑of‑custody records when required Support safety, compliance, and risk assessment processes in line with applicable requirements Coordinate with external partners and vendors to extend wet‑lab execution capacity and track deliverables against timelines Maintain awareness of relevant ecosystems (labs, startups, and consortia) and support relationship‑building with external experts Required Qualifications, Capabilities, And Skills Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or a closely related field Hands‑on wet‑lab experience with strong foundational knowledge of DNA/RNA systems and core molecular biology methods Demonstrated ability to frame testable hypotheses, define measurable success criteria, and interpret experimental results Ability to communicate complex scientific topics clearly to non‑specialist, cross‑functional stakeholders Strong documentation discipline, including accurate lab notebooks, protocol control, and reproducibility practices Working knowledge of lab safety practices and comfort operating within structured safety and quality expectations Ability to manage multiple experiments and priorities with attention to detail and follow‑through Preferred Qualifications, Capabilities, And Skills Experience with DNA data storage, DNA computing, molecular cryptography, or closely related research areas Experience building proofs of concept in ambiguous problem spaces where constraints and requirements evolve Familiarity with translating technical findings into strategic implications, decision memos, or executive updates Experience coordinating external labs, vendors, or academic collaborations Comfort engaging with emerging research communities and synthesizing trends into concise insights Benefits Competitive total rewards package including base salary, commission‑based pay, discretionary incentive compensation, comprehensive health‑care coverage, on‑site wellness centers, retirement savings plan, backup childcare, tuition reimbursement, mental health support, financial coaching, and more. Additional details will be provided during the hiring process. Equal Opportunity Employer We are an equal‑opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, veteran status, pregnancy, or disability. We provide reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with religious practices or disabilities. #J-18808-Ljbffr JPMorganChase