Research Associate I (Rapid Test Development)

Inbios-International-Inc; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 46,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision, life &dis

401(k) + Roth IRA + FSA options

2 weeks paid vacation + 11 paid oH

Competitive pay and growth

Team-focused, impact-driven culture

Job summary

InBios International Inc. in Seattle, WA seeks a Research Associate I to support rapid test and immunoassay development on a full-time, on-site basis.

The role focuses on lateral flow immunoassay (LFI) development, nanoparticle conjugation, and assay optimization within a GMP/GLP-compliant environment. The position is contingent on funded programs, with an anticipated duration of approximately 18 months and potential extensions depending on contract renewal and project needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in life sciences.
• Strong foundational knowledge of immunoassay principles and lab techniques.
• Experience performing lab experiments and documenting procedures.

Responsibilities

• Execute and analyze experiments supporting rapid test and immunoassay development.
• Develop and optimize lateral flow immunoassay components.
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation per SOPs and quality requirements.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, immunology, or a related life science field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

BSL-2 laboratory practices

GMP/GLP processes

Job description

Description

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join our Detection & Diagnostic Advancement team. This position will support the development, optimization, and commercialization of novel rapid diagnostic tests, with a primary focus on lateral flow immunoassay (LFI) technology.

This is a regular full-time employment position contingent upon continued funding through a contracted test development program. The anticipated duration of the position is approximately 18 months, with the potential for extension should the current contract be renewed, expanded, or additional development projects become available.

The ideal candidate is scientifically curious, detail-oriented, and interested in contributing to the development of practical diagnostic products. Experience with or exposure to immunoassay development, nanoparticle conjugation, and BSL-2 laboratory environments is preferred. You enjoy hands-on laboratory work and experimental troubleshooting and work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

About Us

InBios International Inc. has been advancing diagnostic solutions since 1996, specializing in the design, development, and manufacturing of assays for emerging infectious diseases and biothreats. Our work supports global health initiatives and government-funded programs, with a strong focus on innovation, quality, and compliance.

Based in Seattle, WA, we offer a collaborative, mission-driven culture where employees contribute to meaningful work that impacts lives worldwide.

About the Position

• Position Title: Research Associate I
• Location: Seattle, WA
• Employment Type: Full-time, nonexempt | On-site
• Hourly Pay Range: $22.25 - $28.60
  Hourly pay range represents the full pay range for the position and is not the anticipated starting pay range. Individual offers are based on relevant experience, skills, qualifications, position requirements, and internal equity. Employees may progress through the range over time as proficiency and experience in the role develop.

What You’ll Do

• Execute and analyze experiments supporting rapid test and immunoassay development.
• Stripe nitrocellulose membrane using a library of potential binders.
• Perform nanoparticle conjugation and characterization activities, including gold nanoparticle and latex particle-based systems.
• Develop and optimize lateral flow immunoassay components
• Troubleshoot assay performance issues and recommend scientifically sound solutions.
• Analyze experimental data and communicate findings to the manager and support team discussions.
• Maintain complete, accurate, and organized laboratory documentation in accordance with company procedures and quality requirements.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional team members to achieve project milestones.
• Assist with pilot-scale studies, process characterization, and technology transfer activities as needed.
• Follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), safety requirements, and quality system requirements.
• Support activities conducted in compliance with FDA regulations, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

What We’re Looking For

Required for the position:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, immunology, or a related life science field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Foundational knowledge of immunoassay principles and laboratory techniques gained through academic, internship, or professional laboratory experience.
• Experience performing laboratory experiments and accurately documenting procedures, observations, and results.
• Ability to analyze experimental results and apply scientific reasoning to basic troubleshooting.
• Ability to follow established laboratory procedures, safety requirements, and written protocols.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Preferred for the project:

• Master’s degree in biomedical engineering, biology, immunology, or a related field.
• 1+ year of hands‑on lateral flow immunoassay (LFI) and/or immunoassay development experience, particularly in a commercial laboratory environment.
• Experience with nanoparticle conjugation, including gold nanoparticle or latex particle-based systems.
• Experience working in a Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) laboratory environment.
• Experience working in an FDA-regulated, GMP, or GLP environment.
• Experience troubleshooting assay performance or optimizing experimental conditions.

Work Environment

• GMP-compliant manufacturing and laboratory setting
• Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) environment with required PPE
• Work may include standing for extended periods and handling biological materials
• Occasional lifting (up to 30 lbs. with assistance)

Perks & Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life & disability insurance
• 401(k) + Roth IRA + FSA options
• 2 weeks paid vacation + 11 paid holidays (including winter break)
• Competitive pay and growth opportunities
• Supportive, team-oriented culture focused on innovation and impact