Research Associate 2/ Sr. Research Associate - Assay Development

Uncover; Fremont, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

401(k) match

ESPP

Tuition reimbursement

Commuter benefits / EV charging

Job summary

Personalis is seeking a hands‑on molecular biology professional to join our R&D team in Fremont, CA. You will plan, execute, and analyze cutting‑edge oncology solutions and provide on‑site NGS library preparation using real‑world samples to support precision medicine products used by pharma, biotech, and clinical partners.

The role requires 3+ years of lab experience, expertise in DNA/RNA extraction and QC (Qubit, TapeStation), and familiarity with cfDNA/cfRNA or FFPE samples.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Molecular Biology, Genomics, Biochemistry, or a related biological science.
• 3+ years of hands‑on molecular biology laboratory experience (biotech/pharma preferred).
• Proficiency in DNA/RNA extraction, quality control (e.g., Qubit, TapeStation), and NGS library preparation.

Responsibilities

• Support R&D scientists in developing, optimizing, and validating novel oncology assays and workflows.
• Extract DNA/RNA from biological samples (blood, tissue) and construct high quality libraries for Next‑Generation Sequencing (NGS).
• Process sample cohorts for critical assay validation studies and external industry/academic collaborations under tight timelines.
• Evaluate new protocols as a front‑line user and provide constructive feedback to optimize standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Maintain meticulous sample tracking and experimental records in lab notebooks; present findings in team meetings.
• Maintain compliance with safety guidelines, quality standards, and company policies.

Skills

DNA/RNA extraction

Quality control

NGS library preparation

Education

BS/MS in Molecular Biology

Tools

Qubit

TapeStation

Job description

At Personalis, we are transforming the active management of cancer through breakthrough personalized testing. We aim to drive a new paradigm for cancer management, guiding care from biopsy through the life of the patient. Our highly sensitive assays combine tumor-and-normal profiling with proprietary algorithms to deliver advanced insights even as cancer evolves over time. Our products are designed to detect minimal residual disease (MRD) and recurrence at the earliest timepoints, enable selection of targeted therapies based on ultra-comprehensive genomic profiling, and enhance biomarker strategy for drug development.

Personalis is based in Fremont, California.

Summary: In this role, you will collaborate with a multidisciplinary R&D team of scientists, assay developers, and clinicians to plan, execute, and analyze cutting‑edge oncology solutions. You will provide hands‑on NGS equipment operation and library preparation using real‑world samples to develop novel precision medicine products used by pharma, biotech, and clinical partners.

Responsibilities

• Support R&D scientists in developing, optimizing, and validating novel oncology assays and workflows.
• Extract DNA/RNA from biological samples (blood, tissue) and construct high quality libraries for Next‑Generation Sequencing (NGS).
• Process sample cohorts for critical assay validation studies and external industry/academic collaborations under tight timelines.
• Evaluate new protocols as a front‑line user and provide constructive feedback to optimize standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Maintain meticulous sample tracking and experimental records in lab notebooks; present findings in team meetings.
• Maintain compliance with safety guidelines, quality standards, and company policies.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Molecular Biology, Genomics, Biochemistry, or a related biological science.
• 3+ years of hands‑on molecular biology laboratory experience (biotech/pharma preferred).
• Proficiency in DNA/RNA extraction, quality control (e.g., Qubit, TapeStation), and NGS library preparation.
• Experience with liquid biopsy (cfDNA/cfRNA) or FFPE sample processing is strongly preferred.
• Strong organizational and communication skills with a drive to learn in a fast‑paced, hands‑on environment.

Compensation and Benefits

• The hiring range for this position is $85,000 to $115,000 per year, which may factor in various geographic regions.
• The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors.
• Our full‑time regular positions also include an annual performance‑based bonus (or a sales incentive plan) and long‑term incentive units (equity) provided as part of our compensation package.
• Full range of medical, dental, vision, 401(k) match, ESPP, tuition reimbursement, sick/vacation time, commuter benefits / EV charging stations, onsite gym, and wellness benefits.
• Benefits vary by country and by level and position offered.

Diversity & Inclusion

Personalis is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to the full inclusion of all individuals. Personalis is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabilities.

If you need an accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please let your recruiter know, if/when they contacts you.