Contract Ophthalmology Preclinical Scientist, Molecular Biology

Mykelly; Thousand Oaks (CA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Kelly Science & Clinical seeks an Associate Scientist, Ophthalmology Preclinical Research for a 6-month contract in Thousand Oaks, CA. The role focuses on ocular gene therapy research, supporting capsid screening, characterization, and candidate selection through molecular biology, bioanalytical, and cell-based assays.

The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with molecular cloning, qPCR, ddPCR, ELISA, nucleic acid extraction or RNAscope, and can execute protocols independently while

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or related field.
• Hands-on experience with molecular cloning, qPCR, ddPCR, ELISA, nucleic acid extraction, and RNAscope.
• Ability to independently execute laboratory protocols, troubleshoot technical issues, and generate reproducible data.
• Experience analyzing and presenting experimental results.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work on-site in Thousand Oaks, California.

Responsibilities

• Execute and troubleshoot molecular biology, bioanalytical, and in vitro assays supporting ocular gene therapy research.
• Extract, quantify, and assess nucleic acids from cell-based and other biological samples.
• Perform qPCR and ddPCR assays to measure vector genomes, transgene expression, and related molecular endpoints.
• Conduct molecular cloning, plasmid construction, and DNA preparation.
• Perform ELISA and other protein-based assays to evaluate transgene expression and biological activity.
• Support cell-based studies, including aseptic technique, cell maintenance, passaging, and dose–response experiments.
• Collaborate with molecular biology, bioanalytics, and in vivo research teams to execute studies and advance program goals.
• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental results.
• Maintain complete and accurate electronic laboratory records and data documentation.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, reagents, and supplies while following applicable safety and quality procedures.

Skills

Molecular biology

qPCR

ddPCR

ELISA

Nucleic acid extraction

RNAscope

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or related field

Job description

Kelly Science & Clinical seeks an Associate Scientist, Ophthalmology Preclinical Research for a 6-month contract in Thousand Oaks, CA. The role focuses on ocular gene therapy research, supporting capsid screening, characterization, and candidate selection through molecular biology, bioanalytical, and cell-based assays.

The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with molecular cloning, qPCR, ddPCR, ELISA, nucleic acid extraction or RNAscope, and can execute protocols independently while