Research Associate II

LGC Limited; Gaithersburg, Northern (MD, KY); Hybrid; USD 37,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive medical, dental, vision

401(k) with match

Flexible work options

Job summary

LGC Limited is seeking a Research Associate II to support the research, development, and commercialization of precision diagnostic products in its Clinical Diagnostics Division. You will perform molecular biology and cell biology experiments, develop reference materials, and contribute to data generation under cross-functional collaboration.

The role emphasizes technical proficiency, troubleshooting, and compliance with quality systems, with opportunities across NGS and diagnostics technologies.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, or related field with no prior experience required; OR Bachelor’s degree with relevant lab experience.
• Experience performing molecular biology techniques and lab-based activities.
• Experience with cell culture and aseptic technique.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology and cell biology experiments to support product development and validation.
• Conduct real-time qPCR and digital PCR analyses; analyze results.
• Maintain GMP/GLP-compliant documentation and laboratory records.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain lab equipment; participate in equipment qualification and validation.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

Cell culture

Data analysis

GMP/GLP knowledge

QPCR/dPCR

Documentation/compliance

Education

Master's degree in Biochemistry/Biology

Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry/Biology

Tools

MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

Job description

• Department: Scientific / Technical Science

Company Description

LGC’s Clinical Diagnostics Division develops and manufactures a comprehensive portfolio of catalog and custom-developed diagnostic quality solutions and component materials for the extended life sciences industry. We partner with IVD assay developers, and pharmaceutical, CRO and academic institutions in commercialization activities across the entire diagnostic pipeline - from concept and early stage research, through expedited product development and onwards into routine clinical use. Laboratorians and diagnostic professionals across disciplines of clinical chemistry, immunochemistry, serology, molecular diagnostics and clinical genomics rely on LGC’s products to support accurate and reliable diagnostic results. Our operating entities include SeraCare Life Sciences and Maine Standards Company, which arein vitrodiagnostics (IVD) manufacturers of quality measurement tools (calibrators, controls, linearity, EQA/PT, biological materials) and the Native Antigen Company, which is a manufacturer and supplier of viral antigens. Our 300+ employees operate FDA-registered and ISO 13485-accredited facilities in Maine, Massachusetts and Maryland, USA, and an ISO 9001-accredited facility in Oxford, UK. Each day, our world-class staff, scientific expertise, operational efficiency and superior quality systems are ready to support the range of advanced technologies that collectively improve patient outcomes - from the widely adopted and established through to cutting-edge NGS and precision diagnostics.

Job Description

Advance LGC Clinical Diagnostics' purpose of understanding disease by supporting the research, development, and commercialization of precision diagnostic products.

The Research Associate II performs a combination of routine and non-routine laboratory activities using molecular biology and cellular biology techniques to develop reference materials, support product development initiatives, and generate high-quality scientific data. This position works with moderate independence, contributes to project execution, analyzes experimental results, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to achieve departmental objectives. The Research Associate II is expected to demonstrate technical proficiency, troubleshoot routine issues, and maintain compliance with applicable quality and regulatory requirements.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to capably perform each of the following essential duties:

• Perform molecular biology and cell biology experiments in support of product development, validation, and continuous improvement activities
• Execute assigned projects, experiments, and laboratory tasks according to established timelines, protocols, and quality requirements
• Develop and characterize reference materials under the guidance of senior staff
• Perform nucleic acid analysis, including RNA and DNA integrity assessment, real-time qPCR, and digital PCR, and analyze experimental results
• Conduct molecular biology techniques such as nucleic acid purification, enzymatic digestion, gel electrophoresis, RNA transcription, cell culture, and transfection
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, batch records, and support documentation in accordance with GMP, GLP, and internal quality requirements
• Record, organize, and maintain scientific data and test results using approved systems and procedures
• Operate, maintain, calibrate, and monitor laboratory equipment according to established protocols and assist with equipment qualification and validation activities
• Manage laboratory inventory by monitoring reagent usage, forecasting supply needs, and ordering materials through approved systems
• Support technology transfer activities, process improvements, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, quality, and reproducibility
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment while adhering to all company safety and quality requirements
• Perform other duties and projects assigned to support business objectives.

Qualifications

Essential Knowledge and Qualification:

• Master's degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, or a related scientific discipline with no prior experience required; OR

Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, or a related scientific discipline with relevant laboratory experience

• Experience performing molecular biology techniques and laboratory-based scientific activities
• Experience with cell culture and aseptic technique
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint

Desired Knowledge and Qualifications:

• 3+ years of relevant laboratory experience
• Experience in a biotechnology, diagnostics, pharmaceutical, life sciences, or regulated laboratory environment
• Experience working under GMP, GLP, ISO, or other quality management systems
• Experience with qPCR, digital PCR, nucleic acid analysis, and related molecular biology techniques
• Experience supporting product development, assay development, or technology transfer activities

Behavioural and Interpersonal Competencies:

• Resonate and operate in line with LGC’s core value behaviors: Passion, Curiosity, Integrity, Brilliance, and Respect
• Apply critical thinking and analytical skills to interpret data, identify trends, and support problem solving.
• Works independently on routine and moderately complex assignments while seeking guidance when appropriate.
• Effectively manages multiple priorities and adapts to changing project needs and timelines.
• Communicates technical findings, project updates, and concerns clearly and professionally.
• Collaborate effectively with scientists, research associates, manufacturing personnel, and other cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrates strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Contributes to a positive team environment and willingly supports colleagues and departmental goals.
• Shows initiative in identifying opportunities for process improvements and operational efficiencies.
• Maintains a commitment to scientific integrity, data quality, regulatory compliance, and product excellence.

Additional Information

The typical pay range for this role is:

Minimum:$27.00 USD per hour

Maximum:$41.00 USD per hour

New hires receive the hourly rate between the minimum and maximum of the range, with the amount offered determined by factors such as internal equity, education, previous experience, skills relevant to the position.

This position is eligible for a discretionary bonus program. Participation in the bonus program is not guaranteed, and bonuses are awarded at the discretion of the company based on individual and company performance results.

What we offer (US based-employees):

• Competitive compensation with strong bonus program
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits for employees and dependents
• FSA/HSA Pre-tax savings plans for health care, childcare, and elder care
• Deductible Buffer Insurance and Critical Illness Insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with matching employer contribution
• Company-paid short- and long- term disability, life insurance, and employee assistance program
• Flexible work options
• Pet Insurance for our furry friends
• Enhanced Parental leave of 8 additional weeks
• PTO that begins immediately
• Town Hall monthly meeting onsite/virtual, Cheer program where employees are recognized for outstanding work, Company wide social events, frequent catered lunches and much more!

LGC strongly believes that every job applicant and employee should be valued for their individual talents regardless of age, disability, race, color, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion, or belief. Short listing, interviewing and selection will always be carried out without regard to gender, sexual orientation, marital status, color, race, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, age, or trade union membership.

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