Research Associate I- In Vitro

Software Guidance & Assistance, Inc. (SGA, Inc.); South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 19,685 - 38,173; Full time

Job summary

A technology and resource solutions provider in South San Francisco seeks a Research Associate I. You will provide technical assistance in developing in-vitro assays, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and maintain detailed documentation. Ideal candidates have a BS/MS and 4+ years of wet-lab experience, along with proficiency in molecular biology assays. This contract position offers competitive pay within a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of wet-lab experience in academic, biotech, or research settings.
• Proficient in quantitative endpoint assays such as ELISA.
• Experience with routine imaging and image-based analysis.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical assistance in developing in-vitro assays.
• Execute toxicity and image-based assays independently.
• Analyze and present data to collaborators.

Skills

Molecular biology assays

Cell-based viability assays

Immunofluorescence

Laboratory automation

Education

BS/MS in biology or related field

Job description

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Pay Range

$14.29/hr - $27.71/hr

Position

Research Associate I (Contract) – Pharmaceutical Services client, South San Francisco, CA

Responsibilities

• Provide technical assistance in developing and implementing in‑vitro assays using intestinal organoid‑derived models.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to characterize in‑vitro responses to small molecules and biologics, including cell viability assays, permeability assays, high‑throughput imaging, and single‑cell RNA‑sequencing.
• Independently execute toxicity and image‑based assays.
• Partner with culture automation teams to establish workflows for high‑throughput screens.
• Analyze, interpret, and present data to collaborators and stakeholders with clear verbal and written communication.
• Maintain detailed electronic documentation consistent with departmental SOPs and contribute to final reports.
• Perform work that may involve sitting and standing for extended periods, repetitive tasks, and handling potentially hazardous materials such as chemotherapeutics, biological hazards, and human primary cells.

Required Skills

• BS/MS in biology, bioengineering, biomedical engineering, pharmacology/toxicology, or a related field with 4+ years of wet‑lab experience in academic, biotech/pharma, or research settings.
• Proficient in molecular biology/quantitative endpoint assays such as ELISA and cell‑based viability assays (LDH, CellTiter‑Glo) at scale (96‑384 well formats).
• Experience with routine imaging and image‑based analysis, including immunofluorescence, confocal microscopy, and high‑content imaging.
• Background in laboratory automation, computational analysis, or single‑cell RNA‑sequencing is a plus.

Preferred Skills

• Significant laboratory‑based expertise with tissue culture, particularly primary tissue‑derived cell lines or iPSCs, and 3D organoid or organoid‑derived technologies (monolayers, microphysiological systems/chips).
• Experience developing, qualifying, and applying complex in‑vitro models (CIVMs) in a biotech/pharmaceutical setting.

Company Information

SGA is a technology and resource solutions provider driven to stand out. We are a women‑owned business focused on solving large IT problems with a boutique approach, matching consultants to over 1,000 engagements each year. Our core values are customer service, employee development, and integrity in everything we do.

Equal Opportunity Employer

SGA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of Race, Color, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Religion, National Origin, Disability, Veteran Status, Age, Marital Status, Pregnancy, Genetic Information, or other legally protected status. We are committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment.