Senior Research Associate

Astellas Pharma; Westborough (MA); On-site; USD 83,000 - 118,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

401(k) match

Job summary

Astellas Pharma in Westborough, MA seeks a Senior Research Associate in Cytogenomics to execute advanced NGS workflows including bulk and single-cell sequencing using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms. The role also covers automation, primary human cell culture, and data interpretation in a rigorous, collaborative environment.

Qualifications include a BS with 8+ years or MS with 4+ years in molecular biology/genomics, with hands-on NGS experience and proficiency in core molecular

Qualifications

• BS/MS with strong molecular biology and genomics background.
• Hands-on experience with NGS workflows and library prep.
• Experience with long- and short-read sequencing platforms.
• Ability to work in a regulated lab and maintain documentation.

Responsibilities

• Execute advanced NGS workflows from sample prep to QC and run completion.
• Perform nucleic acid extraction, quantification, quality assessment, and library prep.
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot sequencing methods and SOPs.
• Implement automated workflows and maintain instrument readiness.
• Culture, maintain, and manipulate primary human cells aseptically.
• Analyze quality-control data and clearly communicate results to teams.
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to protocols and reports.

Skills

NGS workflows experience

Molecular biology

Data interpretation

Collaboration

Cross-functional teamwork

Organizational skills

Problem solving

Education

BS with 8+ years or MS with 4+ years in relevant field

Tools

Illumina sequencing platforms

Oxford Nanopore platforms

Liquid-handling platforms

Job description

About Astellas Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at Astellas.com.

About Astellas Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at Astellas.com.

Are you driven to make a real difference in the lives of patients?

We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact.

Purpose & Scope

The Senior Research Associate, Cytogenomics, is responsible for executing advanced molecular workflows, with a significant focus on next-generation sequencing (NGS) applications, including bulk, single-cell, and targeted capture sequencing using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms. The role also supports workflow automation using liquid-handling systems and performs primary human cell culture using rigorous aseptic technique and established culture standards.

Role And Responsibilities

• Execute Advanced NGS Workflows: Perform bulk, single-cell, and targeted-capture sequencing workflows using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms, from sample preparation to library QC and through sequencing run completion.
• Perform Molecular Biology Methods: Execute nucleic acid extraction, quantification, quality assessment, library preparation, target enrichment, amplification, and other high-complexity molecular workflows.
• Support Workflow Development and Optimization: Evaluate, develop, optimize, and troubleshoot molecular and sequencing methods, strategies, and SOPs to improve assay performance, robustness, throughput, and reproducibility.
• Implement Laboratory Automation: Develop, execute, and maintain automated workflows using liquid handling platforms, including method programming, optimization, troubleshooting, and routine operation.
• Perform Primary Human Cell Culture: Culture, maintain, expand, and experimentally manipulate primary human cells using rigorous aseptic technique and established cell-culture standards.
• Analyze and Communicate Experimental Results: Familiarize and adhere to the organizational policy on data integrity. Review experimental and sequencing quality-control data, identify technical issues or trends, document findings, and communicate results clearly to project teams and scientific stakeholders.
• Maintain Laboratory Readiness and Documentation: Maintain accurate experimental records, follow established procedures, support instrument maintenance and laboratory organization, and contribute to the preparation and revision of protocols, methods, and technical reports.

Required Qualifications

• BS with 8+ years or MS with 4+ years of relevant experience in molecular biology, genomics, cell biology, biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Significant hands‑on experience performing next‑generation sequencing workflows, including sample preparation, library construction, library quality control, and sequencing run execution.
• Experience with one or more NGS applications, such as bulk DNA or RNA sequencing, single‑cell sequencing, or targeted‑capture sequencing.
• Hands‑on experience operating Illumina sequencing platforms or comparable short‑read sequencing technologies.
• Strong technical proficiency in core molecular biology methods, including nucleic acid extraction, quantification, quality assessment, amplification, and library preparation.
• Experience developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting complex molecular or sequencing workflows.
• Experience operating liquid‑handling systems or other laboratory automation platforms, including automated method execution and troubleshooting.
• Hands‑on experience culturing primary human cells using rigorous aseptic technique and established cell culture practices.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret experimental and quality‑control data, identify technical issues, maintain accurate experimental records, and communicate findings clearly.
• Strong organizational, problem‑solving, and collaboration skills, with the ability to manage multiple laboratory activities and work effectively within cross‑functional scientific teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands‑on experience with Oxford Nanopore sequencing platforms and long‑read sequencing workflows.
• Experience with single‑cell sequencing workflows, including cell or nuclei preparation, library construction, and sequencing quality control.
• Experience designing and executing targeted‑capture or enrichment‑based sequencing workflows.
• Experience programming, developing, or optimizing methods on liquid‑handling platforms.
• Experience with sequencing‑based assay development, technology transfer, method qualification, or validation.
• Familiarity with primary human cell culture, cell‑based sample preparation, and the integration of cellular workflows with downstream molecular analyses.
• Working knowledge of sequencing data analysis, bioinformatics pipelines, or common genomic data formats and quality‑control metrics.
• Experience working in a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, regulated, or quality‑controlled laboratory environment.

Location and Working Environment

This position is based in Westborough, MA and will require primarily on‑site work in a laboratory and office working environment.

What awaits you at Astellas?

• Global collaboration: Become part of a connected global business of like‑minded life science leaders, all dedicated to improving patients' lives worldwide.
• Real‑world patient impact: Contribute to transformative therapies that reach patients around the world, knowing your work makes a difference every day.
• Relentless Innovation: Join a company at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs, where you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of healthcare.
• A Culture of Growth: Chart your own course within a supportive environment that values your contributions, champions your development, and empowers you to pursue your passions.

Our Organizational Values and Behaviors

Values: Innovation, Integrity and Impact sit at the heart of what we do.

Behaviors: We come together as One Astellas, working with courage and a sense of urgency. We are outcome focused and consistently take accountability for our personal contribution.

Salary Range

$82,880 - $118,400 (Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to skills, experience and organizational equity considerations.)

Benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off options, including Vacation and Sick time, plus national holidays including year‑end shut down
• 401(k) match and annual company contribution
• Company paid life insurance
• Annual Corporate Bonus and Quarterly Sales Incentive for eligible positions
• Long Term Incentive Plan for eligible positions
• Company fleet vehicle for eligible positions
• Referral bonus program

Category Integrative Science

Astellas is committed to equality of opportunity in all aspects of employment.

EOE including Disability/Protected Veterans