Molecular Biology Associate

Active Site; Somerville (MA); On-site; USD 38,572 - 44,083; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Referral bonus $200

Job summary

Active Site is seeking Molecular Biology Associates to independently perform DNA design, assembly, purification, and cloning in a BSL-1 lab. You will work with AI tools like Claude Code and own your research strategy within a small, autonomous setting.

The role requires a relevant bachelor's degree and 3 months of hands-on PCR, gel electrophoresis, and cloning experience, with strict hours 8:45 AM–5:15 PM and no hybrid/remote options. This is a temporary, fixed-term position in Somerville, MA.

Qualifications

• Must be currently enrolled in or hold a bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, or related field.
• 3 months of independent, iterative research in PCR, gel electrophoresis, and molecular cloning; understanding of primer design, Benchling, and cloning methods.

Responsibilities

• DNA design, assembly, purification, and cloning in a BSL-1 lab.
• Work with AI tools like Claude Code as part of the project.
• Act autonomously, manage your own reagent budget, and drive DNA assembly projects independently.

Skills

PCR

Gel electrophoresis

Molecular cloning

Primer design

Benchling

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology or related

Tools

Benchling

Job description

Key details

• On-site

• Location: Somerville, MA

• Part-time: 4 hours/day Mon-Fri, either 8:45 AM-12:45 PM or 1:15-5:15 PM

• Temporary: 16 week fixed term (August 31-December 18, 2026) or 12 week fixed term (September 14-December 4, 2026)

• Salary: $30/hour and $2000 performance bonus
  

About Active Site

Active Site is a research nonprofit studying the intersection of AI and biology. We collect real-world data to measure how AI augments human performance in biological experimentation, using our findings to advance the science of AIxBio. Our work shapes how new technologies like AI interface with biological research.

About The Role

We are seeking Molecular Biology Associates to work independently on DNA assembly.

• Core Tasks: You will work in a BSL-1 lab completing tasks such as DNA design, assembly, purification, and cloning.

• The AI Component: As part of this project, you will work with AI tools like Claude Code.

• Work Environment: This role is designed for highly autonomous researchers. You will not receive day-to-day technical mentorship or assistance; instead, you will have the unique opportunity to fully own your research strategy, manage your own reagent budget, and independently drive your DNA assembly projects. While you will be working alongside other associates, you won't collaborate together.

Requirements

• Educational Background: You must be currently enrolled in or hold a bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, or a closely related discipline.

• Experience: 3 months of independent, iterative, and project-based research experience in PCR, gel electrophoresis, and molecular cloning. Demonstrated understanding of primer design, molecular software (Benchling), and molecular cloning methods.

• Work Authorization: This position is open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and individuals currently authorized to work in the U.S.. Active Site Research, Inc. is an E-Verify employer and complies with all applicable work authorization laws.

Referral Bonus

Refer a friend and earn $200: receive $100 once they're hired and accept the position plus $100 when they successfully complete the full 12-week term. Referral bonuses are awarded only to referrals submitted through our official referral link before the candidate applies. Candidates who have already applied through any other channel are not eligible for referral bonus payout, regardless of any prior connection to the referrer.

Logistics & Policies

• Commute: The lab is accessible via Green line extension (East Somerville) and nearby Blue Bike stations. Parking is not provided.

• Flexibility & Remote Work: We cannot accommodate flexible hours outside 8:45 AM-5:15 PM or hybrid/remote work.

• Absences: We can schedule make-up days for illness, but we cannot accommodate pre-planned absences exceeding 5 days during the term.

• Concurrent Commitments: You may engage in other jobs or classes as long as they do not conflict with your scheduled hours.

• Future Employment: This is strictly a temporary role; we are not hiring full-time after the position ends.

• Holidays: Our office observes all federal holidays. During this term we'll observe Labor Day (September 7) and Thanksgiving (November 26).

Our Hiring Process

• Deadline: August 1, 2026

• Step 2: In-person, onsite interview

• Step 3: Offer

Equal Opportunity and Accommodations

Active Site Research, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of age, color, disability, sex, gender identity or gender expression, ancestry, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, marital or familial status, or any other personal characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Active Site Research, Inc. also complies with all applicable national, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act and IRCA. Active Site Research, Inc. is an E-Verify employer. Active Site Research, Inc. is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need an accommodation during the application process or to perform the essential functions of this job, please let us know.