Research Associate 2 - Immunoblot

Purpose

As a Research Associate 2, you will have the opportunity to work independently in a fast-paced, collaborative, and scientifically rigorous environment. Approximately 70% of your time will be spent conducting immunoblot experiments at the lab bench while 30% of your time will be spent analyzing data, interpreting results, writing reports and data presentations, and planning future experiments. A bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline and at least three years of experience with immunoblotting techniques such as traditional and/or capillary immunoblot assays.

Overview

Are you interested in working in a company setting with a growing group of enthusiastic, hard-working, and supportive individuals? Then consider working at DivergeTSL. Diverge works with biotech and pharmaceutical companies around the world to assist with their drug development efforts. We conduct pre-clinical and clinical trial-support studies for companies that do not have laboratories or need extra laboratory support.

Why work at DivergeTSL?

We offer competitive compensation packages including medical, dental and vision benefits, and access to health savings accounts, long and short-term disability, voluntary life insurance, 401(k) with company match. We also offer annual bonuses and, most importantly, a friendly, fun, and supportive work environment.

Salary range: $65,000-75,000, plus annual performance bonus

Primary Functions

• Design experiments under the supervision of senior researchers
• Conduct a wide variety of protein analysis assays including traditional and capillary immunoblots.
• Perform data collection, analysis, and interpretation using relevant analysis and quantification software.
• Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures and results utilizing ELN and LIMS.
• Troubleshoot experimental procedures and suggest improvements.
• Follow GxP standards.
• Prepare written reports and data presentations.
• Operate, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance on equipment.
• Monitor and maintain supply of inventory.
• Participate in meetings with senior researchers and present results and interpretations.
• Contribute to the development of research proposals, protocols, and methodologies.
• Train junior research associates and team members on how to conduct experimental techniques.
• Collaborate with team members to identify areas for process improvement, efficiency and innovation.

Required qualifications:

• Demonstrated ability to independently execute, troubleshoot, and document immunoblot-based studies.
• A minimum of three years of experience in immunoblot techniques including traditional and capillary blots.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot experimental procedures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team environment.
• Proficiency in relevant data analysis and laboratory software tools (e.g., ELN, LIMS, image analysis platforms (such as BioRad’s Image Lab, Compass for SimpleWestern).

Compensation & Benefits

• Annual performance-based bonus
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health savings and flexible spending accounts
• 401(k) with company match
• Short- and long-term disability
• Life insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Volunteer time off
• Professional development support
• Friendly, collaborative team environment

Application

• Send cover letter and resume to jtetzlaff@divergetsl.com

Trial Period

• All new hires are subject to a 90-day introductory period, during which both the employee and Diverge TSL can assess overall fit for the role.

Organizational Structure

Building: Global Water Center, 247 West Freshwater Way, Milwaukee, WI

Reports to: Manager of Research (Maggie Beatka)

Direct Reports: None

Collaborates with: All company employees

Specifications

Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree in scientific discipline

Minimum Required Experience 3 years of Immunoblot experience in particular

Preferred Education Master’s degree in scientific discipline, plus relevant certifications

Preferred Experience 5-7 years experience working in a laboratory environment

FLSA Status Exempt position

Workweek Full-time role 40 hours per week during regular business hours (9:30am – 5:30pm, one 30-minute lunch break, two 15-minute breaks)

Work location This is a fully onsite position based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Job Scope

Complexity – initiative and occasional judgment required

Impact – errors may cause damage; work requires regular attention to accuracy

Autonomy – performs work without constant supervision; expected results are specifically outlined

Communication – proactively provides information to others; ensures appropriate dissemination of information

Responsibility – assists others to ensure proper completion of work

Confidentiality – expected to work with confidential information and maintain its confidentiality

Leadership – none

Physical Requirements

Work requires occasionally lifting moderate weight materials, standing, or walking continuously.

Risk Potential

Possible exposure to hazards such as dust, fumes, or extreme temperatures, airborne or blood borne pathogens, extreme temperatures, or allergens. Proper training and safety equipment will be provided.

Sensory Acuity

Ability to detect and translate speech or other communication required. May occasionally require the ability to distinguish colors and perceive relative distances between objects.

Work Environment

This position primarily takes place within a laboratory setting, involving both hands-on work and computer-based tasks. The Laboratory Assistant will interact with researchers, scientists, and other laboratory and office staff regularly. The role will require standing, lifting, and working with chemicals and equipment, following appropriate safety measures. Occasional exposure to dust, noise, temperature changes, or contact with water or other liquids. Work is performed in an environmentally controlled environment.