NGS Research Associate II – RNA Library Prep

Alltrna; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 74,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare coverage

Annual incentive program

Retirement benefits

Other benefits

Job summary

Alltrna in Cambridge, MA is seeking a Research Associate II / Senior Research Associate for the Next-Generation Sequencing Core. You will own end-to-end RNA-based NGS experiments, from RNA extraction to sequencing, QC, and documentation, collaborating with molecular, computational biology, and lab automation teams.

The role emphasizes hands-on library preparation for tRNA-seq and small RNA-seq, operation of KingFisher, Mantis, and Biomek, and maintaining high data quality on tight timelines.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline, with 2+ years (RA II) or 4+ years (Senior RA) of relevant experience.
• Hands-on experience with nucleic acids, including RNA/DNA extraction and quantification, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and Illumina NGS library preparation.
• Working understanding of the molecular biology and QC metrics that underlie NGS workflows and Illumina sequencing.
• Ability to stay organized and complete a high volume of requests on time, while maintaining accuracy and quality.
• Demonstrated ability to think critically, troubleshoot, and problem-solve.
• Track record of identifying and contributing to data-driven workflow improvements.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the demonstrated ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team.

Responsibilities

• Execute end-to-end NGS experiments, including RNA extraction from tissues and cells, tRNA-seq and small RNA-seq library preparation, sequencer operation, and quality control.
• Independently operate automation equipment, including KingFisher, Mantis, and Biomek liquid handlers.
• Evaluate run and sample QC metrics, proactively flag deviations and out-of-spec results, troubleshoot to root cause.
• Follow SOPs and contribute to maintaining and updating these as workflows evolve.
• Document all procedures, data, and observations in our electronic laboratory notebook system (Benchling) to maintain accuracy and traceability.
• Contribute to the design and execution of experiments to evaluate data-driven NGS workflow improvements, supporting gains in quality, throughput, and efficiency.
• Contribute to sample and reagent inventory management, ordering, batch certification, equipment readiness, and laboratory organization.
• Collaborate with sample intake, computational, and automation teams to ensure both sample and data quality.

Skills

RNA/DNA extraction

PCR

qPCR

Gel electrophoresis

Illumina library prep

Troubleshooting

Data-driven improvements

Education

BS/MS in biology

Tools

KingFisher

Mantis

Biomek

Benchling

Job description

Alltrna in Cambridge, MA is seeking a Research Associate II / Senior Research Associate for the Next-Generation Sequencing Core. You will own end-to-end RNA-based NGS experiments, from RNA extraction to sequencing, QC, and documentation, collaborating with molecular, computational biology, and lab automation teams.

The role emphasizes hands-on library preparation for tRNA-seq and small RNA-seq, operation of KingFisher, Mantis, and Biomek, and maintaining high data quality on tight timelines.