Molecular Biology Research Associate

Texas A&M Agrilife Research; College Station (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid holidays

Vacation leave

Retirement plan

Job summary

Texas A&M AgriLife Research in College Station, TX seeks a Research Associate – Molecular Biology to design and execute molecular biology experiments from sample intake to data delivery. You will train students, maintain records, and contribute to manuscripts and funding proposals.

The role involves coordinating sequencing, quality control, and field sample activities, with emphasis on protocol adherence and data integrity in a grant-funded lab environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a life science, chemistry, or related field.
• Two years of related professional experience in molecular biology, molecular diagnostics, or a closely related field.
• Bench experience with nucleic acid extraction, quantitative PCR or next generation sequencing library preparation, and quality control of nucleic acids.
• Familiarity with standard molecular biology laboratory equipment and the ability to follow and apply established protocols.
• Ability to use computers and applicable software to manage data, perform statistical analyses, and present results.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and work cooperatively with laboratory staff, students, and collaborators, with consistent record keeping and sample chain of custody.
• Clear written communication, including detailed laboratory records and technical summaries.

Responsibilities

• Design, plan, conduct, and coordinate molecular biology experiments in support of the laboratory’s research projects, including sample processing and sequencing runs.
• Evaluate, select, and apply established protocols for nucleic acid extraction, sequencing library preparation, and targeted molecular assays, including quantitative PCR, across environmental, animal, and food sample types, and assist with protocol optimization for new sample types.
• Prepare next generation sequencing libraries and carry out sequencing runs on the laboratory’s platforms, including nanopore instruments, and troubleshoot routine run problems.
• Perform quality control checks on input material and finished libraries against established acceptance criteria, keep detailed records of quality control data, and report results that fall outside specification to the principal investigator.
• Compile and analyze sequencing run metrics and assay data, carry out initial data processing (basecalling, demultiplexing, and read quality assessment), and prepare data packages for the laboratory’s bioinformatics staff.
• Participate in field and farm sample collection, including cold chain handling, chain of custody documentation, and recording of sample metadata.
• Maintain sample inventories and detailed data records in line with the laboratory’s data management policy.
• Train and supervise undergraduate and graduate students in molecular methods, instrument operation, and quality control, and contribute to written standard operating procedures.
• Install, operate, and maintain sequencing and quality control instruments, including routine performance checks, and report service needs to the lab manager.
• Summarize results and prepare methods descriptions and figures for manuscripts and project reports, and assist with the preparation of funding proposals.
• Work with postdoctoral researchers, collaborators, and the lab manager on experiment timelines, reagent and consumable needs, and reporting of results.

Skills

Molecular biology

Data analysis

Laboratory record keeping

Team supervision

Written communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in life science

Tools

qPCR

Nucleic acid extraction

Sequencing library prep

Job description

Texas A&M AgriLife Research in College Station, TX seeks a Research Associate – Molecular Biology to design and execute molecular biology experiments from sample intake to data delivery. You will train students, maintain records, and contribute to manuscripts and funding proposals.

The role involves coordinating sequencing, quality control, and field sample activities, with emphasis on protocol adherence and data integrity in a grant-funded lab environment.