Research Associate, Single Cell Biology

Kelly® Science & Clinical is seeking a Research Associate, iPSC Models for a 9-month contract-to-hire opportunity with one of our clients, a single cell biology biotechnology company in Pleasanton, CA. If you’re passionate about bringing the latest scientific discoveries to life and are ready to take the next step in your career, trust The Experts at Hiring Experts. Position type: 9-month contract-to-hire Workplace: Onsite in Pleasanton, CA Pay Range: $38 - 53 per hour About the Role Join a pioneering biotechnology team revolutionizing how scientists measure and interpret biology. Our advanced single-cell RNA sequencing platform is setting new standards in transcriptomic analysis, empowering researchers to tackle complex questions with unprecedented precision and scalability. We’re seeking a Research Associate or Senior Research Associate to champion cell biology within Applications Development. This position puts you at the heart of our scientific workflows: your expertise in mammalian cell culture will drive the creation of high-fidelity models and samples, serving as the cornerstone for cutting‑edge transcriptomic applications. In close partnership with product developers, you’ll transform living cell systems into meticulously prepared single‑cell samples optimized for our technology. This opportunity is ideal for someone who excels at bench work, takes pride in flawless technique and cell culture mastery, and is eager to connect their laboratory skills directly to product innovation and scientific advancement. Key Responsibilities Mammalian Cell Culture: Independently maintain and expand a range of cell lines — including iPSCs, iPSC‑derived cell types, and complex 3D organoid models. Oversee differentiation, media prep, plating, passaging, and cryopreservation while upholding strict aseptic protocols. Model Integrity: Monitor culture health, morphology, and consistency, ensuring all samples meet documented standards for reproducibility and reliability in downstream assays. Sample Preparation: Prepare high‑quality single‑cell and single‑nucleus suspensions from diverse sources (cells, organoids, tissue), expertly managing dissociation, viability, debris removal, and input quality control. Experimental Execution: Carry out cell culture, sample preparation, and perturbation experiments (compound treatments, dose‑response/time course studies), collaborating with senior scientists to drive discovery. Data & Documentation: Generate robust, reproducible data and maintain immaculate experimental records to support team collaboration and regulatory compliance. Protocol Development: Contribute to the refinement and formalization of workflows, SOPs, and QC benchmarks as the team scales up. Lab Operations: Keep the laboratory running efficiently—managing inventory, maintaining equipment, and ensuring all supplies are ready for seamless experimentation. Qualifications Bachelor’s or Master’s in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, or related fields. 2–5 years of relevant industry or advanced academic laboratory experience (greater experience for the SRA position). Demonstrated excellence in mammalian cell culture and sterile technique—the role’s foundation. Proficiency in one or more: iPSC culture and differentiation, 3D/organoid culture, or primary cell isolation. Experience (or aptitude to quickly learn) in preparing high‑quality single‑cell suspensions from complex samples. Proven track record in executing sophisticated biological workflows, troubleshooting, and delivering reproducible results. Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous documentation habits. Comfortable thriving in a fast‑paced, evolving biotech environment. Preferred Experience Single‑cell genomics workflows (e.g., scRNA‑seq, droplet/bead systems, barcoding/cell‑hashing). Perturbation and screening experiments (dose‑response, high‑content assays). NGS library preparation and QC methods (Bioanalyzer, TapeStation, Qubit, fragment analysis). Familiarity with liquid‑handling automation or high‑throughput sample handling. Basic data analysis (Python, R, or standard bioinformatics tools). Previous work in assay, applications, or product development labs. What Success Looks Like Cellular cultures and models are consistently healthy, reliable, and ready for team use. Single‑cell samples routinely meet the highest quality standards and QC benchmarks. Data is reproducible, and records are clear for seamless team collaboration. You demonstrate growing independence, proactive problem‑solving, and reinforce a collaborative culture of rigor and accountability #P1 As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work‑related resources. Benefits and Perks 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. 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. 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For full details, including how Kelly uses AI, your rights, and how to request a reasonable accommodation, visit the Recruitment Artificial Intelligence Notice ( . Kelly Services is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affinit­ve Action employer. We welcome, value, and embrace diversity at all levels and are committed to building a team that is inclusive of a variety of backgrounds, communities, perspectives, and abilities. At Kelly, we believe that the more inclusive we are, the better services we can provide. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to Kelly’s 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr Kelly Services