Associate Scientist – Disease Detection and Diagnostics

MRIGlobal; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

MRIGlobal is seeking an Associate Scientist to join the Integrated Health Surveillance & Diagnostics (IHSD) team in Kansas City, MO. On-site role focusing on assay development, lab testing, and data generation within a fast-paced biology lab.

The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in molecular/cell biology or biochemistry, with experience in mammalian stem cell culture and a collaborative approach to advancing human health through diagnostic technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level degree in a life science with 3–5 years of relevant experience or MS with at least 1 year of relevant experience.
• Experience with mammalian stem cell culture and advanced cell culture systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; ability to work independently and in a team.
• Strong problem-solving, organization, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic lab.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory research and execute experiments supporting assay development and technology evaluation.
• Develop and maintain SOPs and study documentation.
• Analyze, summarize, and communicate experimental results to project teams; collaborate across disciplines.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.
• Support timely execution of project deliverables and milestones.

Skills

Communication skills

Independent work

Problem solving

Organized

Lab safety/quality

Data analysis software

MS Office

U.S. Citizenship

Education

Bachelor's degree in Cell Biology/Related life sciences

MS in related field (preferred)

Job description

Associate Scientist – Disease Detection and Diagnostics

MRIGlobal is seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist to join our Integrated Health Surveillance & Diagnostics (IHSD) Research & Development team in Kansas City, MO. This on-site position offers the opportunity to contribute to impactful research programs that advance human health, biotechnology, and next-generation diagnostic technologies. The successful candidate will support assay and product development, laboratory testing and evaluation, and a variety of research activities within a fast-paced biology laboratory environment. Ideal candidates will have a strong foundation in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or a related discipline, along with industry or CRO experience and a desire to apply their scientific expertise to real-world challenges.

Principal Accountabilities and Success Factors

The Associate Scientist will execute laboratory research activities that support assay development, experimental studies, technology evaluation, and data generation for a diverse portfolio of scientific programs. Success in this role requires strong technical laboratory skills, scientific rigor, attention to detail, effective problem-solving, and the ability to adapt to evolving project needs. The ideal candidate thrives in a collaborative environment, contributes independently to assigned objectives, and produces high-quality, reliable results.

Duties may include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct laboratory research and execute experiments under the guidance of Principal Investigators and technical leads
• Support assay development, testing, optimization, and troubleshooting activities
• Work with mammalian stem cells, cell culture systems, and advanced in vitro models
• Develop and maintain SOPs, laboratory procedures, and study documentation
• Analyze, summarize, and communicate experimental results to project teams
• Collaborate with scientists across multiple disciplines to advance research objectives and deliver client-funded programs
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety, quality, and regulatory requirements
• Support the timely execution of project deliverables and technical milestones

Minimum Qualifications

• B.S. in Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, or a related life science discipline with 3-5 years of relevant experience; or M.S. in a related field with at least 1 year of relevant experience
• Hands-on experience with mammalian stem cell culture, including induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), primary cells, or other advanced cell culture systems
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a multidisciplinary team
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
• Well-organized, adaptable, and able to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic research environment
• Commitment to laboratory safety, security, and quality standards
• Experience maintaining accurate, organized, and traceable laboratory records
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and scientific data analysis software
• Must be a U.S. Citizen

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in reproductive biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, tissue engineering, or a related field
• Experience working with microphysiological systems, organ-on-chip platforms, 3D tissue models, organoids, or other advanced in vitro models
• Proficiency in microscopy techniques, including fluorescence and confocal microscopy, image acquisition, and analysis
• Strong molecular and cell biology laboratory skills, including nucleic acid isolation, PCR, RT-qPCR, ELISA, Western blotting, immunostaining, and fluorescence imaging
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot experimental methods, optimize protocols, and propose alternative scientific approaches
• Experience working in a contract research organization (CRO), biotechnology, diagnostics, or biopharmaceutical research environment
• Experience working in regulated research environments and supporting sponsor- or government-funded research programs