Research Associate I

Manpower San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Manpower San Diego is seeking a Research Associate I to support cross-functional molecular diagnostics projects by executing lab experiments, generating high-quality data, and maintaining operations.

The role bridges bench work and computational analysis, collaborating with Assay Development and Bioinformatics teams to design, optimize, and document assays in a fast-paced, data-driven environment.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Molecular Biology, Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Genetics or related life science.
• 0-2 years of lab experience in academic, biotech, diagnostics or related fields.
• Fundamental PCR/qPCR proficiency and data handling skills.
• Strong organization and attention to detail, good communication.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology and assay development experiments per study plans.
• Prepare reagents, controls, oligos, standards, and samples.
• Execute PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR and other nucleic acid workflows.
• Support high-throughput screening with plate prep and automation.
• Collect, organize, and summarize data in notebooks/EDMS.
• Assist with data compilation, quality checks, and metadata prep.
• Communicate results and issues to project team and supervisors.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot lab equipment.
• Manage laboratory inventory and routine operations.
• Follow SOPs, safety requirements, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with scientists and bioinformaticians to meet timelines.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

Data organization

Laboratory documentation

Communication

Education

B.S. in Molecular Biology or related life science

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

PowerPoint

Job description

The Research Associate I supports cross-functional molecular diagnostics research projects through the execution of laboratory experiments, generation of high-quality data, and maintenance of laboratory operations. Working closely with Assay Development and Bioinformatics teams, this individual performs molecular biology workflows, supports high-throughput screening activities, organizes experimental data, and contributes to data-driven assay development efforts.

The position serves as a bridge between laboratory experimentation and computational analysis, ensuring the generation and organization of high-quality data to support assay design and optimization activities. This position is ideal for an early-career scientist interested in molecular diagnostics, assay development, laboratory automation, and data-centric research.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology and assay development experiments following established protocols and study plans.
• Prepare reagents, controls, oligonucleotides, standards, and biological samples for assay development activities.
• Execute PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR, and other nucleic acid-based workflows using laboratory instrumentation and automated systems.
• Support high-throughput screening studies through plate preparation, sample processing, and operation of laboratory automation platforms.
• Collect, organize, document, and summarize experimental data in laboratory notebooks and electronic data management systems.
• Assist with data compilation, quality checks, and preparation of datasets and associated metadata for downstream analysis.
• Communicate experimental results, observations, and technical issues to project team members and supervisors.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and instrumentation as needed.
• Manage laboratory inventory and support routine laboratory operations.
• Follow established SOPs, laboratory safety requirements, and quality standards
• Collaborate effectively with scientists and bioinformaticians to support project goals and timelines.

Qualifications

Required

• B.S. or B.A. in Molecular Biology, Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Genetics, or a related life science discipline.
• 0-2 years of laboratory experience in academic research, biotechnology, diagnostics, or related fields.
• Basic understanding of molecular biology techniques, including PCR and qPCR.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Word and PPT.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred

• Experience with molecular diagnostic assays.
• Experience with automated liquid handling systems or other laboratory automation platforms.
• Familiarity with high-throughput screening workflows.
• Exposure to biological data analysis, data visualization, or bioinformatics concepts.
• Experience working in a regulated laboratory environment.