Scientist (Molecular Biology)

Scientist – Molecular Biology

Job Description

This Scientist III role supports high-impact research and development programs within a Sample Preparation R&D team. The scientist develops and optimizes bead-based nucleic acid extraction and direct-to-qPCR workflows to advance molecular biology applications. The position focuses on improving sensitivity, speed, and workflow efficiency for nucleic acid extraction and detection across research and applied markets, while working closely with cross-functional teams in a laboratory-based environment.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and analyze laboratory experiments to support bead-based DNA and RNA extraction workflows.
• Develop and optimize lysis-to-qPCR and direct-to-PCR sample preparation workflows, including Cells-to-CT–style approaches.
• Perform qPCR and RT-qPCR assays to evaluate workflow performance, including sensitivity, robustness, and overall efficiency.
• Support the development of sample preparation solutions for complex biological matrices such as plasma, serum, cell culture media, and other bodily fluids.
• Document experimental procedures, observations, and results clearly and accurately, and contribute to technical reports and data summaries.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional partners, including assay development, automation, and product development teams, to advance R&D initiatives.
• Adhere to laboratory safety procedures, quality standards, and data integrity requirements in all experimental work.
• Work with a high degree of independence after onboarding, proactively planning experiments and troubleshooting workflows as needed.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, chemistry, biology, or a related field with 2 years of experience with PCR, preferably qPCR, or a Master’s degree with 1 years of relevant experience.
• Relevant hands-on experience in molecular biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, or a closely related discipline.
• Practical, hands-on experience with magnetic bead–based nucleic acid extraction for DNA and/or RNA.
• Proficiency with PCR, with strong experience in qPCR and RT-qPCR assay execution and analysis.
• Experience designing, executing, and analyzing laboratory experiments in a research or development setting.
• Ability to develop and optimize sample preparation workflows, including lysis-to-qPCR and direct-to-PCR approaches.
• Strong documentation skills for recording experimental methods, data, and conclusions with clarity and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently in a laboratory environment after an initial training period.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with automated sample preparation platforms, such as KingFisher™ systems.
• Experience working in an R&D or product development laboratory environment.
• Familiarity with process development for molecular biology workflows.
• Proficiency with data analysis and presentation tools, including Excel and PowerPoint.
• Experience using JMP or similar statistical analysis software.
• Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Willingness to participate in an in-person interview process and complete a lab-based practical proficiency test as part of the selection process.

Work Environment

This is a laboratory-based Scientist III contract position within a Sample Preparation R&D team focused on molecular biology and nucleic acid workflow development. The role involves daily hands-on work at the bench with magnetic bead–based nucleic acid extraction, PCR and qPCR instruments, and related laboratory equipment. The environment emphasizes research and product development, collaboration with assay development, automation, and product development colleagues, and adherence to rigorous safety, quality, and data integrity standards. Work is performed on-site in a lab setting where candidates are expected to demonstrate practical proficiency during the selection process and to operate with increasing independence over time.

This is a Contract position based out of Austin, TX.

The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $45.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in Austin,TX.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 24, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000 extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.

Salary : $45