LC-MS Research Associate I (Contract)

AlleyCorp; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

AOA Dx in Denver, CO, is seeking a skilled LC-MS Research Associate I (Contract) to support R&D activities and routine clinical testing in a CAP/CLIA-certified diagnostic laboratory.

The contractor will prepare and analyze patient serum and plasma using LC-MS and immunoassay platforms, while adhering to SOPs, quality requirements, and regulatory standards. You will maintain accurate LIS records and collaborate with the team to ensure timely test completion.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, or related field.
• Experience with LC-MS in academic or industry settings.
• Willingness to follow SOPs in a regulated lab.
• Familiarity with handling human specimens.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic sample preparation of serum and plasma specimens.
• Conduct high-complexity testing under CLIA regulations.
• Assist with LC-MS and immunoassay testing under supervision.
• Accurately load samples and review data for consistency.

Skills

LC-MS experience

Attention to detail

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, or related field

Tools

Thermo Orbitrap LC-MS

Job description

About the Company

AOA Dx is developing the next frontier in early-stage cancer detection through its pioneering work in lipids and proprietary biomarker technology. Our revolutionary tumor marker ganglioside platform, GlycoLocate, is paving the way for life-saving early cancer detection. In a first of its kind, AOA Dx is developing AKRIVIS GD, an early-stage liquid biopsy test for ovarian cancer.

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled LC-MS Research Associate I (Contract) to support R&D activities and perform routine clinical testing in a CAP/CLIA-certified diagnostic laboratory. This contract engagement will support R&D activities from early discovery LC-MS to technology transfer to a CAP/CLIA Lab. The contractor will support preparation and analysis of patient serum and plasma specimens using LC-MS and immunoassay platforms while adhering to established SOPs, quality requirements, and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Testing & Sample Preparation

• Perform basic sample preparation of patient serum and plasma specimens, including aliquoting, dilution, and routine extraction steps, following established SOPs.
• Perform high-complexity testing under CLIA regulations.
• Assist with testing on LC-MS platforms and automated immunoassay analyzers under supervision.
• Accurately load samples, reagents, and controls onto analytical instruments.
• Review test data for completeness and consistency; accelerate unusual or out-of-range results to senior staff or supervisors.

Quality & Regulatory Compliance

• Follow CAP, CLIA, and laboratory quality standards.
• Perform routine quality control (QC) procedures and document results as directed.
• Participate in training activities related to method validation, proficiency testing, and competency assessments.
• Report deviations, instrument issues, or quality concerns promptly to supervisory staff.

Documentation & Data Entry

• Record testing activities, QC results, and maintenance logs accurately in the laboratory information system (LIS) or approved documentation systems.
• Maintain clear, organized, and compliant laboratory records.

Laboratory Support & Operations

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with laboratory safety guidelines.
• Assist with reagent preparation, inventory restocking, and supply tracking.
• Support day-to-day laboratory operations and collaborate with team members to ensure timely test completion.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, or a related scientific field.
• Academic or industry experience with LC-MS.
• Familiarity with basic laboratory techniques and handling of human specimens.
• Willingness to learn and follow detailed SOPs in a regulated environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1 year minimum experience operating Thermo Orbitrap LC-MS.
• Academic or industry experience with immunoassays.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to follow instructions and work under supervision.
• Basic computer skills and ability to learn laboratory software systems.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods.
• Manual dexterity for pipetting and handling small volumes.
• Ability to lift up to 40lbs as required.
• Use of appropriate PPE when handling clinical specimens.

Hourly Rate: $25 - 35/hour

Location: On-Site Denver, CO

Equal Opportunity Statement

AOA Dx is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender (including pregnancy), sexual orientation or expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.