Research Associate II / Sr Research Associate (NGS Applications)

Research Associate II / Sr Research Associate (NGS Applications) Onsite in South San Francisco 

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to join our dynamic Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) product development team. In this hands-on role, you will support the evaluation, optimization, and advancement of cutting-edge NGS solutions. You will perform high-quality laboratory experiments, contribute to critical data generation, and help drive  successful internal and external adoption of our products. This position is ideal for someone passionate about molecular biology and eager to grow their expertise in NGS workflows, product development, and applications.

Job title and compensation will be determined based on several factors, including but not limited to the candidate's years of experience, individual skills, knowledge, and abilities.

Responsibilities

• Perform a wide range of molecular biology techniques to support NGS workflow optimization (e.g., enzymatic and mechanical library prep, DNA purification, PCR/qPCR, QC using BioAnalyzer/TapeStation).
• Prepare samples to load sequencing runs and help manage sequencing outputs.
• Assist in testing and optimizing NGS library preparation kits and sequencing workflows (e.g., Illumina, PacBio, Oxford Nanopore).
• Execute controlled experiments under the guidance of scientists, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and adherence to experimental plans.
• Support post-launch product activities by helping analyze customer samples, participating in troubleshooting experiments, and generating data that informs technical documentation.
• Contribute to drafting technical summaries, figures, and data packages for internal and external use.
• Support evaluations of new NGS technologies, methods, or reagents under supervision.
• Use tools such as Python, R, Jupyter notebooks, and common visualization packages to present data clearly.
• Maintain detailed electronic lab notebooks and documentation to ensure reproducibility and data integrity.
• Work closely with R&D scientists, product development, and field teams to support development timelines and deliverables.
• Participate in routine team meetings, providing updates on progress and observations.

Qualifications and Required Skills

• B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genomics, or related fields.
  • Research Associate II
    Requires a BS and 2 years of professional experience or a Master's degree and 0-2 years of work experience
  • Sr Research Associate
    Requires a BS and 5 years of professional experience or a Master's degree and 3 years of work experience
• Experience performing NGS library preparation, target enrichment, sequencing and familiarity with sequencing platforms (Illumina required; experience with PacBio or Oxford Nanopore a plus).
• Hands-on experience with DNA/RNA purification, library preparation, quantification (Qubit), PCR/qPCR, and electrophoretic QC (BioAnalyzer/TapeStation), enzymatic assays, and primer design.
• Basic NGS data analysis knowledge (e.g., FastQ metrics, alignment QC metrics) and familiarity using Python, R, or similar tools for data visualization.
• Strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and ability to follow SOPs and experimental protocols precisely.
• Clear communication skills and an ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, cross-functional R&D environment.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks/experiments and prioritize effectively.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with NGS applications such as WGS, RNA-Seq, and Metagenomics.
• Experience with liquid handling systems and automation tools

About Twist Bioscience

Twist Bioscience synthesizes genes from scratch, known as “writing” DNA. Just as children learn to both read and write, the next phase of development for the genomics revolution is the ability to write DNA.

At Twist Bioscience, we work in service of people who are changing the world for the better. In fields such as health care, agriculture, industrial chemicals and data storage, our unique silicon-based DNA Synthesis Platform provides precision at a scale that is otherwise unavailable to our customers.

Twist Bioscience Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Twist Bioscience Corporation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic characteristics, or any other category protected by law.