Research Associate I, Sample Management (P3626)

Planet Pharma; Redwood City (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Planet Pharma seeks a Research Associate I to support day-to-day laboratory operations in Sample Management, focusing on accurate tracking, storage, and distribution of compounds and samples to enable discovery programs. You will operate LIMS and automation platforms, perform quality control, document activities, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve workflows and maintain compliance.

Ideal candidates hold a BS/MS in a related science, value data integrity, and communicate

Qualifications

• BS or MS in chemistry, biology, engineering, or related scientific discipline.
• Strong commitment to data integrity and operational discipline.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Execute core sample management activities, including sample receipt, accessioning, storage, tracking, retrieval, distribution, and disposal.
• Operate and maintain automated storage systems, LIMS, and supporting laboratory infrastructure.
• Perform routine quality control checks to ensure sample integrity, data accuracy, and system reliability.
• Accurately document all activities in LIMS and associated databases in compliance with SOPs and data integrity standards.
• Troubleshoot routine equipment or process issues and escalate complex problems as needed.
• Support implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of SOPs and best practices.
• Partner closely with cross-functional teams to ensure timely and accurate delivery of compounds and samples.
• Assist with onboarding of new technologies, automation platforms, and laboratory systems.
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, scalability, and reliability of sample management workflows.
• Maintain laboratory organization, compliance, and operational readiness.

Skills

Data integrity

Communication

Troubleshooting

Independent execution

Education

BS/MS in chemistry/biology/engineering

Tools

LIMS

Mosaic

Lab software

Job description

Research Associate I, Sample Management

The Opportunity:

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate I to support day-to-day laboratory operations within the Sample Management function. This role is ideal for a hands-on laboratory professional who thrives in a fast-paced research environment and takes pride in operational excellence, data integrity, and high-quality execution.

The successful candidate will play a critical role in supporting compound and biological sample workflows, ensuring accurate tracking, storage, and distribution of materials that enable discovery and development programs.

Key responsibilities

• Execute core sample management activities, including sample receipt, accessioning, storage, tracking, retrieval, distribution, and disposal.

• Operate and maintain automated storage systems, LIMS, and supporting laboratory infrastructure.

• Perform routine quality control checks to ensure sample integrity, data accuracy, and system reliability.

• Accurately document all activities in LIMS and associated databases in compliance with SOPs and data integrity standards.

• Troubleshoot routine equipment or process issues and escalate complex problems as needed.

• Support implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of SOPs and best practices.

• Partner closely with cross-functional teams to ensure timely and accurate delivery of compounds and samples.

• Assist with onboarding of new technologies, automation platforms, and laboratory systems.

• Contribute to process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, scalability, and reliability of sample management workflows.

• Maintain laboratory organization, compliance, and operational readiness.

Required Skills, Experience and Education:

• BS or MS in chemistry, biology, engineering, or related scientific discipline.

• Strong commitment to data integrity and operational discipline.

• Clear written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience troubleshooting laboratory equipment or operational processes.

• Proficiency with standard laboratory software and data systems

• Proven ability to independently execute and prioritize laboratory workflows.

• Experience troubleshooting laboratory equipment or operational processes.

• Demonstrated contributions to process optimization or workflow improvements.

• Experience supporting small-molecule drug discovery programs.

• Familiarity with automated compound/sample storage platforms.

• Exposure to laboratory automation systems.

• Experience with Cenevo’s Sample Management Software Mosaic.

• Experience contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.