Scientist II (Cell and Molecular Biology)

We are hiring a Scientist II to support our biotechnology client with Culture Collection and Panel Production activities. You will assist with the acquisition, characterization, and management of biological materials, as well as the development of select panels for clinical research and the cultivation and characterization of various microorganisms and mammalian cell lines. The Scientist II facilitates daily operations associated with fulfilling service requests for Culture Collection and panel activities, while providing best-in-class, practical biological solutions to internal customers to drive innovation.

This is a 12-month contract based in Pleasanton, California.

Responsibilities

• Under minimal supervision, execute assigned project activities using established procedures and applying scientific knowledge and accumulated experience to complete projects involving manipulation of human cell lines, microorganisms, and/or other biological materials.
• Perform standard recombinant DNA techniques, including cloning, restriction digestion, ligation, and bacterial transformation.
• Perform routine and specialized cell culture procedures using adherent and suspension immortalized cell lines.
• Analyze plasmid DNA and RNA transcripts for purity, concentration, and quality.
• Make recommendations to resolve problems encountered during experimental procedures.
• Receive general direction; plan and execute own work. May act as a project lead.
• Maintain an effective scientific knowledge base and apply broad scientific concepts to resolve problems of moderate scope and complexity.
• Analyze alternative approaches to solve problems or develop new perspectives on existing solutions.
• Ensure accuracy, quality, and timeliness of all assigned projects, tasks, and related activities.
• Summarize experimental results and review conclusions with supervisor or project lead. Communicate results through written reports and presentations as needed.
• Maintain accurate electronic records using validated systems, ensuring data is recorded in a timely, accurate, and consistent manner.
• Perform work in accordance with established internal safety guidelines and procedures, and as specified by applicable external regulatory agencies (e.g., OSHA).
• Participate in routine laboratory maintenance, laboratory safety activities, ISO, and QSR implementation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Cellular Biology, Microbiology, or a related field with 5 years of relevant experience.
• Experience with aseptic techniques and bacterial and/or mammalian cell culture.
• Ability to manually manipulate samples (including plating, pipetting, labeling, and vialing) on a routine basis, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Experience with cloning techniques, including plasmid design and preparation, restriction enzyme digestion, ligation, bacterial transformation, and downstream processing.
• Experience performing nucleic acid extractions (DNA/RNA), quantification, amplification, and characterization using tools such as Qubit, Nanodrop, gel electrophoresis, and PCR instruments.
• Ability to work in a laboratory environment on a daily basis under BSL-2 laboratory conditions, with or without reasonable accommodation, including work with infectious or engineered biological materials and a variety of sample types (e.g., blood, serum, urine, stool).
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, collaborative team environment with multiple stakeholders across the organization.
• Understanding of good laboratory practices, data integrity, and documentation standards.
• Ability to plan work independently and determine next steps within the context of an overall project.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google applications.
• Experience with LIMS software, electronic lab notebooks (eLN), and JMP is preferred.

Salary

• $73,340-$109,470

Why Choose R&D Partners?

As an employee, you have access to a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical insurance – PPO, HMO & HSA
• Dental & Vision insurance
• 401k plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Long-term disability
• Weekly payroll
• Expense reimbursement
• Online timecard approval

R&D Partners is a global functional service provider and strategic staffing resource specializing in scientific, clinical research & engineering. We provide job opportunities within major pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies.

R&D Partners is an equal-opportunity employer.