Senior Research Associate - Oncology NGS & Assay

Personalis, Inc; Fremont (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Personalis, a Fremont, California based leader in precision oncology, seeks a hands-on molecular biologist to join our R&D team to plan, execute, and analyze cutting-edge oncology solutions using real-world samples for NGS library preparation.

You will perform DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, and assay validation, while refining SOPs and maintaining meticulous records to support rapid biomarker discovery.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Molecular Biology, Genomics, Biochemistry, or related biological science.
• 3+ years of hands-on molecular biology laboratory experience (biotech/pharma preferred).
• Proficiency in DNA/RNA extraction, quality control (e.g., Qubit, TapeStation), and NGS library preparation.
• Experience with liquid biopsy (cfDNA/cfRNA) or FFPE sample processing preferred.
• Strong organizational and communication skills; adaptability in a fast-paced lab.

Responsibilities

• Support R&D scientists in developing, optimizing, and validating oncology assays and workflows.
• Extract DNA/RNA from blood or tissue and prepare high-quality libraries for NGS.
• Process sample cohorts for validation studies and collaborations under tight timelines.
• Evaluate new protocols and provide feedback to SOP improvements.
• Maintain meticulous sample tracking and document findings in lab notebooks; report in team meetings.
• Maintain compliance with safety guidelines, quality standards, and company policies.

Skills

Molecular biology

DNA/RNA extraction

NGS library preparation

Quality control

SOP refinement

Communication

Education

BS/MS in Molecular Biology or related

Job description

Personalis, a Fremont, California based leader in precision oncology, seeks a hands-on molecular biologist to join our R&D team to plan, execute, and analyze cutting-edge oncology solutions using real-world samples for NGS library preparation.

You will perform DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, and assay validation, while refining SOPs and maintaining meticulous records to support rapid biomarker discovery.