Associate Research Scientist I

Position Overview The Research Associate I, under guidance from more experienced scientists, is responsible for day-to-day execution of bench experiments and analysis of data. The role primarily involves Research and Development projects, translating research ideas into the product development pipeline to develop diagnostic assay products. The position creates clinical research datasets using proprietary DNA sequencing methodologies for cancer detection and supports related product development. It may also contribute to the development, optimization, and/or characterization of all aspects of clinical sample testing, including specimen processing, nucleic acid isolation, library construction, target enrichment, and target detection workflows. Essential Duties Conduct bench level experiments within a specific product or technology area. Generate data; accurately record and analyze results of bench level experiments. Operate scientific instrumentation related to performance of duties and notify appropriate personnel of any problems. Effectively utilize and apply established methods or technologies. Maintain a complete and consistent lab notebook following all legal, ISO, and QSR requirements. Prepare reports and documentation describing experimental methods and results. Communicate experimental results to supervisor or other scientists. Demonstrate technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaboration, and independent thought. Exercise judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action. Work with project team members on assignments to meet department and project objectives. Complete assignments within expected time frames. Work in a BSL-2 environment following Biosafety guidelines. Communicate project status to project leader. Collaborate effectively within team and department. Show strong attention to detail. Uphold company mission and values through accountability, innovation, integrity, quality, and teamwork. Support and comply with the company's Quality Management System policies and procedures. Maintain regular and reliable attendance. Be available to work nights and/or weekends, as needed. Lift up to 20 pounds for approximately 5% of a typical working day. Operate a mobile device, tablet, or computer screen and perform typing for approximately 50% of a typical working day. Perform manual tasks requiring dexterity such as grasping, pinching, turning, and reaching above shoulder height. Comply with personal protective equipment requirements. Use laboratory equipment including microscopes, microtomes, blades, strainers, and pipettes for extended periods. Perform repetitive actions using lab tools. Use near vision to view samples at close range. Be exposed to hazardous materials, tissue specimens, instruments with moving parts, lasers, heating and freezing elements, and high-speed centrifugation. Travel between Exact Sciences locations. Travel 5% of working time away from work location, including overnight or weekend travel. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Chemical/Physical/Biological Science, or related field. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship. Demonstrated ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodation. Preferred Qualifications 2 years of experience in medical device/IVD, biotech, life science or pharmaceutical industry. Hands‑on experience with DNA extraction, quantification, and physical analysis (e.g., electrophoresis or spectrophotometry). Experience using PCR, qPCR, or ddPCR for sample analysis. Demonstrated ability to plan, execute, analyze, and interpret experiments. Hands‑on experience with DNA library construction and target enrichment for analysis on Next Generation Sequencing platforms is a plus. Salary Range: $72,000 - $108,000 Our company is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, protected veteran status, and any other status protected by applicable local, state, or federal law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Exact Sciences