Senior Research Associate, Single-Cell RNA Sequencing

Atrium Staffing LLC; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 63,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Atrium Care Package

Job summary

Atrium Staffing LLC is seeking a Senior Research Associate for Single-Cell RNA Sequencing in Boston on a 12‑month contract. You will lead scRNA-seq sample processing, library preparation, and robustness of workflows to support clinical research programs.

The role requires hands-on experience with single-cell workflows, 10x Genomics Chromium, and QC analyses, along with strong organization and collaboration with scientists and bioinformaticians.

Qualifications

• Experience with single-cell RNA sequencing workflows and library preparation.
• Proficiency with 10x Genomics Chromium and related platforms.
• Strong RNA handling and molecular biology skills to minimize sample loss.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, document and troubleshoot scRNA-seq experiments.
• Prepare single-cell suspensions from various sample types and perform library prep.
• Coordinate sample submission with sequencing partners and maintain metadata.

Skills

NGS library preparation

Single-cell workflows

10x Genomics Chromium

Troubleshooting

Experimental design

Education

Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology/Genomics/Biotechnology

Master's degree in related field

Tools

Bioanalyzer

TapeStation

Qubit

Flow cytometer

Job description

Client Overview:

Our client is a leading global biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, focused on discovering and developing transformative medicines for people with serious diseases. They are seeking a Senior Research Associate, Single-Cell RNA Sequencing to join their Analytical Development Molecular Biology team

Salary/Hourly Rate:

$40/hr - $46/hr

Position Overview:

The Senior Research Associate, Single-Cell RNA Sequencing will join the team on a 12-month contract (40 hours/week). This role will lead and execute high-quality single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) sample processing and library preparation supporting clinical research programs, serving as a technical resource for experimental design, troubleshooting, and workflow optimization.

Responsibilities of the Senior Research Associate, Single-Cell RNA Sequencing:

• Independently plan, execute, document, and troubleshoot single-cell RNA-sequencing experiments using established and emerging single-cell genomics platforms.
• Perform cell and tissue dissociation, cell counting, viability assessment, enrichment, sorting coordination, cryopreservation, and sample preparation for single-cell assays.
• Generate high-quality single-cell suspensions from cultured cells, primary cells, blood-derived samples, and tissues.
• Perform single-cell partitioning, barcoding, cDNA generation, amplification, and library preparation, including 10x Genomics Chromium and related platforms.
• Prepare libraries for gene expression and multiomic applications, including cell-surface protein profiling, immune-repertoire profiling, and chromatin accessibility.
• Conduct and interpret quality-control assessments using instruments such as Bioanalyzer, TapeStation, Fragment Analyzer, Qubit, qPCR, and flow cytometry-based viability measurements.
• Coordinate sample submission with internal or external sequencing partners and maintain complete sample metadata and chain-of-custody records.
• Partner with scientists and bioinformaticians to translate scientific questions into robust single-cell experimental plans.
• Identify technical risks and recommend mitigations for challenging samples, including low-input, low-viability, or heterogeneous tissues.
• Maintain clear, contemporaneous experimental records and communicate QC data and technical recommendations to cross-functional stakeholders.

Required Experience/Skills for the Senior Research Associate, Single-Cell RNA Sequencing:

• Demonstrated hands‑on experience performing next‑generation sequencing library preparation, preferably in single‑cell RNA‑sequencing workflows.
• Experience with single‑cell platforms such as 10x Genomics Chromium, including cell preparation, GEM generation, cDNA amplification, library construction, and QC.
• Strong knowledge of RNA handling and molecular biology techniques required to minimize sample loss, contamination, and technical variability.
• Experience preparing and assessing cell suspensions from primary cells and/or tissues.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple experiments in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.
• Ability to independently troubleshoot technical issues and communicate findings effectively.

Preferred Experience/Skills for the Senior Research Associate, Single-Cell RNA Sequencing:

• Experience with multiomic single‑cell assays, including scATAC‑seq, CITE‑seq, immune profiling, cell hashing, feature barcoding, or spatial transcriptomics.
• Familiarity with downstream sequencing metrics such as read depth, mapping rates, sequencing saturation, genes detected per cell, UMI counts, and doublet rates.
• Experience with laboratory automation or liquid‑handling platforms.
• Familiarity with GxP or regulated documentation practices.

Education Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Genomics, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline with 5+ years of relevant experience, or
• Master's degree with 2+ years of relevant experience.

Benefits:

• Atrium Care Package available, upon eligibility (including healthcare plans, discount programs, and paid time off).