Nucleic Acid & Assay Development Scientist — R&D Innovator

Randstad USA; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 41,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Randstad USA in Austin, TX is seeking a Scientist II to advance life sciences programs in a pivotal R&D role focused on product development, automated nucleic acid extraction, and verification/validation workflows.

The position is contract-based, with typical hours 9 to 5 and compensation of $30–35 per hour. A Bachelor's degree is required, and the work centers on diagnostics development in a dynamic biotech setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biological Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or related field.
• 3–5 years of laboratory experience in an academic or biotech setting.
• Hands-on proficiency with automated/manual nucleic acid isolation, endpoint PCR, qPCR, dilution series, and lab calculations.
• Hands-on experience operating equipment like Agilent Bioanalyzer, Nanodrop, Qubit, or plate readers.
• Strong written, verbal, and collaborative communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute design verification and validation test methods for reagents, kits, and instruments across plasma, cell culture, and FFPE samples.
• Utilize automated technologies (e.g., Kingfisher Magnetic Particle Handlers) and manual methods for nucleic acid isolation, qPCR, and NGS.
• Design hypothesis-driven experimental sets, modify procedures, and analyze data to guide key decision-making processes.
• Maintain accurate, reproducible lab documentation and prepare formal research reports for team presentations.
• Ensure complete laboratory compliance and perform routine multi-tasking to keep project deadlines on track.

Skills

Mammalian Cell Culture

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Quality Control (QC)

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biological Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or related field.

Tools

Agilent Bioanalyzer

Nanodrop

Qubit

Plate readers

Job description

Randstad USA in Austin, TX is seeking a Scientist II to advance life sciences programs in a pivotal R&D role focused on product development, automated nucleic acid extraction, and verification/validation workflows.

The position is contract-based, with typical hours 9 to 5 and compensation of $30–35 per hour. A Bachelor's degree is required, and the work centers on diagnostics development in a dynamic biotech setting.