Microbial Genomics Research Associate

Job Description

Job Description

Kelly Science & Clinical is hiring a Research Associate for a full-time contract opportunity in Indianapolis, IN.

About the Role

In this laboratory-based role, you will support the Microbial Genomics team by performing molecular biology and genomics workflows that contribute to the discovery and development of sustainable agricultural products. Working alongside experienced scientists, you will prepare biological samples, perform nucleic acid extractions, execute common molecular biology techniques, and maintain accurate laboratory records in a collaborative research environment.

This opportunity is ideal for an early-career laboratory professional with an Associate's or Bachelor's degree who is looking to gain hands-on experience in molecular biology, microbiology, and microbial genomics.

What You'll Do

• Extract DNA, RNA, and small-molecule metabolites from bacteria, fungi, plants, insects, and vertebrate tissues
• Collect microbial samples from fermentation processes at various production scales
• Perform routine molecular biology techniques, including spectrophotometry, PCR, digital PCR, and gel electrophoresis
• Prepare, package, and ship nucleic acids and other laboratory materials in compliance with regulatory requirements
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and document experimental results
• Communicate findings and project updates with scientists and cross-functional team members
• Support day-to-day laboratory operations while following established protocols and safety procedures
• Contribute to research efforts supporting the development of innovative agricultural products

QualificationsEducation

• Associate's degree in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific discipline required. Bachelor's degree in a related field is also acceptable.
  • Advanced degree candidates are not the target profile for this position.

Experience

• Previous laboratory experience through coursework, internships, or industry experience is preferred
• Experience in a molecular biology, microbiology, or genomics laboratory is a plus

Key Skills

• Hands-on experience with DNA and RNA extraction techniques
• Familiarity with molecular biology methods such as PCR, digital PCR, gel electrophoresis, and spectrophotometry
• Strong laboratory documentation and organizational skills
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to follow laboratory protocols
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Strong problem-solving abilities and willingness to learn
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a research team

Preferred Background

• Experience working in molecular biology, microbiology, microbial genomics, or biotechnology laboratories
• Familiarity with microbial sample handling and fermentation processes
• Experience handling biological samples from plants, microbes, insects, or animal tissues
• Knowledge of laboratory safety practices and regulated shipment of biological materials

Additional Details

• Location: Indianapolis, IN
• Job Type: Full-time Contract (1-year assignment)
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 40 hours/week
• Hours: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM (flexible)
• Pay Rate: $23–25/hour
• Interview Process: Microsoft Teams interview followed by an onsite interview

Take the next step in your scientific career with Kelly Science & Clinical—apply today to join an innovative research team advancing sustainable agricultural technologies through molecular biology and microbial genomics.

As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

Why Kelly® Science & Clinical?

Kelly Science & Clinical is your connection to premier scientific and clinical companies looking to hire industry experts just like you. Our team creates expert talent solutions to solve the world’s most critical challenges. Every day, we match science professionals with dream jobs that fit their skills, interests, and career goals-it’s the way we think job searching should be. Nearly 100 percent of our science recruiters have a professional background and education in science, so we know a thing or two about the science market and how to get your expertise noticed.

About Kelly

Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we’re obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it’s about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It’s the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It’s the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life-just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.

Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Kelly may use AI-powered tools during the recruitment and hiring process. For full details, including how Kelly uses AI, your rights, and how to request a reasonable accommodation, visit the Recruitment Artificial Intelligence Notice.