Research Associate, Molecular Biology (Contract)

Molecular Biology Research Associate (RA)

12-month contract

On-site South San Francisco

About our Client:

Our client is a late series A gene therapy organization using the emerging tools of genetic medicine to engineer cures for human diseases. They believe these powerful new approaches can be used to treat, or cure, common diseases that afflict large numbers of patients. To realize this vision, they are building therapeutics that modify and control multiple genes at the DNA, RNA, and protein level in vivo. Our client has a vibrant, collaborative workplace that supports their team in performing great science while bringing their whole selves to work. They are seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented individual to join their growing Molecular Biology (MolBio) team on a 12-month contract basis.

About the Role:

As a Research Associate in the MolBio team, you will advance our client's genetic medicine technologies, enabling the discovery and development of new therapeutics. Working with a diverse team of cell biologists, protein and RNA engineers, computational scientists, molecular biologists, and translational biologists, you will:

• Execute arrayed and pooled molecular cloning workflows, including T4 ligation, Gibson Assembly, Golden Gate Assembly, and PCR-based cloning, following established SOPs.
• Perform high-throughput plasmid preparation using 96-well column-based miniprep protocols, as well as low-throughput midiprep and maxiprep workflows.
• Utilize laboratory instrumentation — including the QPix automated colony picker and Integra VIAFLO liquid handler — to increase cloning and prep throughput and consistency.
• Accurately register, track, and hand off samples and reagents using Benchling and internal LIMS tools, maintaining high standards for sample tracking and record keeping.
• Support plasmid quantification and normalization using instruments such as the Lunatic/Stunner and Mantis.
• Contribute to the maintenance and organization of the molecular biology lab workspace, including reagent inventory, cold storage, and shared equipment.
• Participate in company-wide experimental campaigns, adapting to shifting experimental needs and priorities with flexibility and a positive attitude.

Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of laboratory experience, with a focus on molecular cloning and/or plasmid preparation.
• Proficiency with common molecular cloning techniques, including Gibson Assembly, T4 ligation, and/or Golden Gate Assembly.
• Experience with plasmid DNA purification.
• Ability to follow SOPs rigorously and document experimental results accurately and completely.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent tasks and maintain accurate records.
• Experience with high-throughput plasmid DNA purification.
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented demeanor. A creative thinker with a track record of high-quality data generation.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Preference for candidates with experienced in high-throughput workflows and laboratory automation including Agilent Bravo and Integra VIAFLO instruments.
• Extensive undergraduate or post graduate laboratory experience and in-depth understanding of underlying molecular biology/biochemical concepts.
• Familiarity with LIMS platforms, Benchling, or similar tools for sample and data management.
• Prior experience in a fast-paced biotech or pharmaceutical research environment.
• Positive, flexible, and proactive approach to work, with a demonstrated ability to adapt to changing experimental needs.
• Working knowledge of tools such as GraphPad Prism, Dotmatics Geneious Prime, and other software tools.

What You’ll Be Part Of:

You will join a close-knit MolBio team that is central to the organization's research engine. Our team supports multiple high-priority programs simultaneously, executing hundreds of plasmid builds per year. We take pride in our rigorous processes, collaborative culture, and commitment to enabling great science across the company. This contract role offers meaningful hands-on experience in a cutting-edge genetic medicine environment, with the opportunity to contribute to work that directly advances therapeutic development.