Research Associate I/II – Molecular Biology (RT-qPCR & Cell Culture)

Yoh,-A-Day-; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Yoh Life Sciences is seeking a Research Associate I/II to support early-stage drug discovery through molecular biology assays, RT-qPCR, and mammalian cell culture in a fast-paced environment. The role emphasizes accurate data generation and reproducibility.

The candidate will perform RNA extraction, RT-qPCR, Western blot, ELISA, and tissue processing, with opportunities for growth and potential contract-to-hire after 6–9 months. Onsite, in South San Francisco, CA.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a life science field.
• 1–3+ years hands-on lab experience in academic/industry research.
• Strong RNA extraction and RT-qPCR experience with controls.
• Excellent pipetting technique including multichannel pipetting.
• Mammalian cell culture experience with aseptic techniques.
• Western blot and ELISA experience.
• Tissue processing and/or primary cell isolation experience.
• Ability to follow SOPs and maintain detailed records.

Responsibilities

• Independently perform RNA extraction from cells/tissues and RT-qPCR plate prep with controls and data analysis.
• Execute Western blot, ELISA, and related protein-based assays with sample prep and quantification.
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures using aseptic techniques; handle passaging, counting, thawing, and cryopreservation.
• Support ex vivo studies through tissue processing and primary cell isolation from rodent and/or human samples.
• Perform precise pipetting, serial dilutions, and 96-well plate workflows to ensure reproducible results.
• Follow SOPs, maintain accurate experimental records, and support multiple projects.

Skills

RNA extraction

RT-qPCR

Mammalian cell culture

Aseptic techniques

Western blot

ELISA

Tissue processing

Data analysis

Pipetting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or related life science

Tools

GraphPad Prism

Excel

Job description

Research Associate I/II - Molecular Biology (RT-qPCR & Cell Culture) (BH-401425)

Location: South San Francisco, United States

Sector: Science & Research

Salary: $35.00 to $45.00 per hour

Research Associate I/II - Molecular Biology (RT-qPCR & Cell Culture)

Location: South San Francisco, CA (100% Onsite)

Pay Rate: $35-45/hour W2, depending on experience

Employment Type: Full-Time, Contract-to-Hire (6-9 Months)

Yoh Life Sciences is seeking a Research Associate I/II to join a growing biotechnology company developing innovative therapies for age-related and chronic diseases.

This opportunity is ideal for a hands-on molecular biologist with strong RNA extraction and RT-qPCR experience who enjoys working at the bench and producing accurate, reproducible experimental data.

You’ll support early-stage drug discovery programs through molecular biology assays, mammalian cell culture, biomarker analysis, and ex vivo tissue research. We’re looking for someone who can independently execute established protocols, maintain excellent laboratory technique, and contribute quickly in a fast-paced research environment.

Both experienced Research Associates and exceptional early-career scientists with strong hands-on laboratory experience are encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently perform RNA extraction from cells and tissues, RT-qPCR plate preparation, assay controls, and data analysis.
• Execute Western blot, ELISA, and other molecular or protein-based assays, including sample preparation and protein quantification.
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures using aseptic techniques, including passaging, counting, thawing, and cryopreservation.
• Support ex vivo studies through tissue processing and primary cell isolation from rodent and/or human donor samples.
• Perform precise pipetting, serial dilutions, and 96-well plate-based workflows to generate reliable, reproducible results.
• Follow established SOPs, maintain detailed experimental records, identify deviations, and support multiple research projects.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or a related life science discipline.
• Approximately 1-3+ years of hands-on laboratory experience in academic or industry research.
• Strong, direct experience performing RNA extraction and RT-qPCR, including assay setup and controls.
• Excellent pipetting technique, including multichannel pipetting, serial dilutions, and plate-based assays.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic techniques.
• Experience performing Western blot and ELISA assays.
• Experience with tissue processing and/or primary cell isolation from rodent or human tissue.
• Ability to independently follow laboratory SOPs, maintain accurate documentation, and generate reproducible data with minimal supervision.

Preferred Qualifications

• Biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or CRO industry experience, particularly in a fast-paced research environment.
• Experience with biomarker assays involving plasma, serum, tissue lysates, or cell culture samples.
• Experience handling primary cells, human donor tissue, or rodent tissue.
• Familiarity with multiplex immunoassays, high-throughput workflows, or automated liquid handling.
• Experience with GraphPad Prism, Excel, or electronic laboratory documentation systems.
• Experience supporting translational research or drug discovery programs.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Contribute directly to early-stage drug discovery programs focused on age-related and chronic diseases.
• Work alongside experienced scientists in a collaborative, hands-on research environment.
• Gain exposure to molecular assays, biomarker analysis, cell culture, and ex vivo research across multiple programs.
• Opportunity for permanent conversion based on performance and business needs.

Additional Details

• Full-time, 100% onsite in South San Francisco, CA.
• Initial contract duration of approximately 6-9 months.
• Occasional weekend cell culture maintenance may be required.
• No live animal handling is required.
• Final candidates will complete an onsite practical laboratory assessment to demonstrate technical proficiency.

Estimated Min Rate: $35.00

Estimated Max Rate: $45.00

Yoh, a Day & Zimmermann company, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Visit https://www.yoh.com/applicants-with-disabilities to contact us if you are an individual with a disability and require accommodation in the application process.

For California applicants, qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act. All of the material job duties described in this posting are job duties for which a criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship potentially resulting in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment.

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Yoh, a Day & Zimmermann company, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.