Research Associate

Job Title: Research Associate Location: Santa Monica, CA Duration: 12 Months Working Hours: 9am-5pm Possible OT Notes to review: The preferred qualifications for the Research Associate position include at least a bachelor s degree, but candidates with a PhD or more senior backgrounds are also welcome Candidates should have approximately two years of experience, ideally in cell therapy or cell handling, managing their own inventory of reagents, and resolving equipment issues Must-have skills: DNA extraction (manual or automated), safe handling of human cells, and performing genomic assays Experience using DPCR technology is preferred Strong documentation skills are important for maintaining accurate experimental records Description: The Research Associate, Analytical Sciences will be responsible for the execution of routine testing, including but not limited to cell-based cytotoxicity assays and molecular biology assays to characterize T cell therapy processes and products. Additionally, this role contributes to the daily operational tasks in the Analytical Sciences team. This role is based out of Santa Monica, CA and reports directly to the Senior Scientist, Analytical Science. Interview Process: 1st round : 30 minute teams interview 2nd round: 1 hour panel interview through teams Essential Functions and Responsibilities " Perform routine analytical testing to characterize cell products or processes primarily using DNA/RNA extraction/quantification, dPCR, live cell imaging, and plate-based assays. " Accurately complete eLN documentation contemporaneously for the lab work in which it pertains to. " Participate in eLN template drafting, revisions, and ensure executable templates are comprehensive. " Maintain sample identity from sample source to molecular derivatives and its associated results. " Participate in tracking assay results and test method performance parameters. " Assist in everyday operation of analytical laboratories, including but not limited to equipment management, lab maintenance and restocking, and reagent inventory. " Support cross-functional projects with process development, manufacturing, quality control, and quality assurance groups. Required Skills/Abilities " Hands-on experience in performing and analyzing qPCR/dPCR and/or cell-based assays is preferred. " Detail-oriented in both technical assay execution and data analysis. " Must be eager to learn and willing to ask questions. " Experience in flow cytometry assays and equipment/software is a plus. " Enjoy a fast-paced, dynamic team and company environment and able to adjust tasks based upon changing priorities. Education and Experience: " BS degree in Biology, Chemistry, or related discipline with a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience. " Industry experience not required but a plus. " Experience working in a regulated environment is a plus. Physical Requirements The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to: " Sit, stand, walk and communicate verbally (i.e. speak and hear). " The employee is frequently required to use their hands and arms to reach and grasp (i.e. tactile functioning). " The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. " Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus to read. " The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. " May be required to travel by plane or car 5% of the time " This position requires working with biological and/or chemical hazards

Created: 2026-04-15