Research Associate II

Job Title: Research Associate II - Research & Early Development
Job Description
This onsite Research Associate II role in Research & Early Development focuses on supporting a flagship program centered on slide imaging and image acquisition using advanced instrumentation. You will perform well-defined, repetitive experimental tasks such as virtual staining and assembling slide cohorts that directly enable the development of AI algorithms. The position combines hands-on laboratory work, data analysis, and documentation within a highly collaborative, quality-focused research environment.
Responsibilities

• Support a flagship research program by performing slide imaging and image acquisition on systems such as DP600s, 200s, VS200, and multispectral flash instruments.
• Execute experimental protocols with minimal supervision, including bench experiments, while adhering to established procedures and timelines.
• Perform virtual staining and assemble slide cohorts to generate high-quality datasets that will be used to develop AI algorithms.
• Make detailed and general observations during experiments and analyze data to draw meaningful conclusions.
• Prepare clear and accurate technical reports, summaries, and quantitative analyses to document experimental findings.
• Maintain complete, accurate, and well-organized laboratory records and documentation in accordance with internal standards.
• Follow general directions on routine work and seek detailed guidance on new or unfamiliar assignments as needed.
• Identify and suggest improvements to laboratory work processes and the overall lab environment to enhance efficiency and quality.
• Assist in identifying and reducing to practice patentable inventions by contributing experimental data and technical insights.
• Work on problems of diverse scope, evaluating identifiable factors and applying appropriate analytical methods to obtain solutions.
• Exercise sound judgment within generally defined practices and policies when selecting methods and techniques for experiments.
• Participate in cross-functional technical teams, such as failure investigation teams, to help resolve complex issues.
• Contribute as a productive project team member by suggesting creative solutions and providing input to project planning.
• Train colleagues in areas of expertise, including specific laboratory techniques, instrumentation, and workflows.
• Troubleshoot experimental and instrumentation problems and implement effective corrective actions.
• Prepare and present experimental procedures, results, and conclusions in group meetings and project team forums.
• Monitor work to ensure high quality standards and actively promote a "Quality First Time" mindset in all activities.

Essential Skills

• 2-4 years of post-college experience in a research, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or medical devices environment or industry.
• Relevant post-degree experience obtained in academic or industry settings, gained after completion of the degree program.
• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Histology, Life Sciences, or Engineering, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Master's degree in a relevant scientific or engineering field with at least 1 year of post-Master's relevant experience.
• Knowledge of basic and a range of specialized laboratory techniques in molecular biology, biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines.
• Ability to execute experimental protocols independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high accuracy and consistency.
• Proficiency in data analysis and preparation of technical reports, summaries, and quantitative analyses.
• Skill in using word processing, spreadsheet, graphical, and presentation software applications for documentation and reporting.
• Strong operational discipline, including adherence to protocols, documentation standards, and quality processes.
• Capability to monitor work quality and promote a Quality First Time approach in all laboratory activities.
• Effective communication skills to prepare and present experimental procedures and results to teams.
• Demonstrated ability to work well in a team environment and contribute productively to project teams.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Master's degree is acceptable and preferred in some cases, especially for candidates with relevant post-graduate research experience.
• Experience in environments aligned with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) or similar quality-regulated settings.
• Comfort following established protocols while maintaining the initiative to proactively solve challenges as they arise.
• Flexible, agile mindset with the ability to adapt to evolving project needs and priorities.
• Collaborative spirit and intellectual honesty, including a readiness to ask for help when needed.
• Openness to feedback and professional coaching, with a focus on continuous learning and development.
• Experience working on problems of diverse scope and applying judgment within defined practices and policies.
• Experience participating in cross-functional technical teams, such as failure investigation or troubleshooting groups.
• Ability to train others in areas of expertise and support knowledge transfer within the team.
• Interest from candidates with more extensive experience is welcome for those who are motivated to contribute in a hands-on research role.

Work Environment
This is a fully onsite position within a Research & Early Development setting that emphasizes hands-on laboratory work and collaboration. You will work with advanced slide imaging and image acquisition systems, including DP600s, 200s, VS200, and multispectral flash instruments, as well as standard laboratory equipment used in molecular biology, biology, biochemistry, and related disciplines. The environment values operational discipline, quality, and continuous improvement, with a strong focus on accurate documentation and adherence to established protocols. You will interact regularly with cross-functional technical teams, participate in group meetings, and present experimental results. Standard office productivity tools, including word processing, spreadsheet, graphical, and presentation software, are used extensively for data analysis and reporting. The role follows a structured onsite schedule typical of a laboratory research environment.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Oro Valley, AZ.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $48.64 - $48.64/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Oro Valley,AZ.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jul 15, 2026.
About Actalent


Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.


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