R&D Scientist - Nucleic Acid & Assay Development

job summary:
Advance your life sciences career in dynamic Austin, TX, as a Scientist II with a top-tier biotech leader. In this pivotal R&D role, you will drive product development, automated nucleic acid extraction, and design verification and validation workflows to bring innovative diagnostics to life.

location: Austin, Texas
job type: Contract
salary: $30 - 35 per hour
work hours: 9 to 5
education: Bachelors

responsibilities:

• Develop and execute design verification and validation test methods for reagents, kits, and instruments across plasma, cell culture, and FFPE samples.
• Utilize automated technologies (e.g., Kingfisher Magnetic Particle Handlers) and manual methods for nucleic acid isolation, qPCR, and NGS.
• Design hypothesis-driven experimental sets, modify procedures, and analyze data to guide key decision-making processes.
• Maintain accurate, reproducible lab documentation and prepare formal research reports for team presentations.
• Ensure complete laboratory compliance and perform routine multi-tasking to keep project deadlines on track.

 
qualifications:

Required:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biological Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or related field.
• 3-5 years of laboratory experience in an academic or biotech setting.
• Hands-on proficiency with automated/manual nucleic acid isolation, endpoint PCR, qPCR, dilution series, and lab calculations.
• Hands-on experience operating equipment like Agilent Bioanalyzer, Nanodrop, Qubit, or plate readers.
• Strong written, verbal, and collaborative communication skills.

Preferred:

• Background in an IVD development environment, BSL2 sample handling, or Next Generation Sequencing (NGS).
• Statistical analysis skills using JMP, DOE, or Design-Focused Six Sigma.

#LI-AO1

skills: Mammalian Cell Culture, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Quality Control (QC)


Equal Opportunity Employer: Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Genetic Information, Disability, Protected Veteran Status, or any other legally protected group status.

At Randstad, we welcome people of all abilities and want to ensure that our hiring and interview process meets the needs of all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation to make your application or interview experience a great one, please contact View email address on randstadusa.com.


Pay offered to a successful candidate will be based on several factors including the candidate's education, work experience, work location, specific job duties, certifications, etc. In addition, Randstad offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: medical, prescription, dental, vision, AD&D, and life insurance offerings, short-term disability, and a 401K plan (all benefits are based on eligibility).


This posting is open for thirty (30) days.