Molecular Biology Associate

Molecular Biology Associate (Scientist II)

Pay Rates: $40 - $43/hr

Location: 100% onsite in Pleasanton, CA

Contract Length: 1 year with potential for extension and/or permanent placement

Benefits: Medical Coverage including Vision, Dental

About the Role

We are seeking a Molecular Biology Associate (Scientist II) to join a collaborative research and development team focused on advancing molecular diagnostic technologies. In this role, you will independently plan and execute laboratory experiments, analyze complex data, troubleshoot technical challenges, and contribute to scientific innovation within a regulated laboratory environment. The ideal candidate combines strong molecular biology expertise with critical thinking, scientific curiosity, and a continuous improvement mindset.

This position requires hands-on experience with advanced molecular biology techniques, including Digital Droplet PCR (ddPCR) and amino acid-related laboratory applications, along with the ability to communicate scientific findings effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and optimize molecular biology experiments using established laboratory methods and scientific principles.
• Conduct and monitor laboratory studies while ensuring the accuracy, quality, and timely completion of experimental work.
• Analyze experimental data using statistical and scientific software, interpret results, and recommend appropriate next steps.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges, laboratory instrumentation, and assay performance to improve research outcomes.
• Maintain accurate and complete electronic laboratory notebook (ELN) documentation in accordance with internal documentation standards.
• Prepare technical reports, scientific summaries, and presentations for project teams and leadership.
• Collaborate with cross-functional scientists and technical teams to support research initiatives and project milestones.
• Participate in laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, laboratory organization, safety compliance, and quality system activities.
• Follow all laboratory safety procedures and regulatory requirements, including ISO quality standards and applicable laboratory regulations.
• Stay current with emerging technologies, scientific literature, and advances in molecular biology and diagnostic research.
• Contribute ideas for process improvements and scientific innovation to enhance laboratory efficiency and research quality.
• May lead small research projects or coordinate activities across multidisciplinary teams.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Life Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
• OR Master's degree in a related scientific field with relevant industry experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of industry laboratory experience in molecular biology, biotechnology, diagnostics, or related research environments.
• Hands-on experience with Digital Droplet PCR (ddPCR) is required.
• Experience working with amino acids or amino acid-related laboratory techniques.
• Strong understanding of molecular biology laboratory techniques and experimental design.
• Experience analyzing scientific data and drawing meaningful conclusions to guide future experiments.
• Ability to troubleshoot laboratory assays, instrumentation, and technical issues.
• Experience documenting experiments using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN) or equivalent documentation systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present scientific findings clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, or a related discipline.
• Experience working in regulated laboratory environments supporting ISO or Quality System Regulations (QSR).
• Experience with laboratory automation or molecular diagnostic instrumentation.
• Knowledge of quantitative data analysis software and statistical methods.
• Previous experience leading scientific projects or mentoring junior laboratory personnel.
• Demonstrated record of process improvement or laboratory optimization initiatives.

What We're Looking For

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Strong scientific curiosity and analytical thinking.
• A structured approach to experimental design and problem solving.
• The ability to discuss technical challenges, failed experiments, lessons learned, and how improvements were implemented.
• Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
• A collaborative mindset and commitment to high-quality scientific research.

Interview Process

• Recruiter Phone Screen
• Virtual Panel Interview (approximately 2 hours)

Application Requirements

Applicants must include one of the following with their application:

• Professional Cover Letter, or
• Professional Biography / Scientific Summary

Applications submitted without the required document may not be considered.