Research Assistant

Job Description: The Research Associate will work with the R&D Scientists and other RAs towards product development objectives. The RA's daily work in the laboratory will include the use of scientific instruments and careful analysis. This position may also engage in development opportunities not often available for positions of this seniority due to the startup nature of the business. The position will be expected to manage and adapt to an evolving and demanding start-up environment.

Responsibilities:

• Work with the R&D team and or individually to execute research experiments.
• Contribute to experimental design and research direction.
• Perform relevant literature research to elucidate and generate novel ideas.
• Report and communicate experiment results and progress to management.
• Operate and maintain equipment.
• Prepare laboratory and research materials (e.g., buffers, product components, etc.)
• Laboratory documentation and maintenance (e.g., inventory, record keeping, cleaning, etc.)
• Generates hypotheses and designs and performs experiments to test them.
• Executes multiple experiments simultaneously over time independently.
• Records all experimental findings in a laboratory notebook and analyzes and interpret experimental findings.
• Based on results, independently suggests, and tests modifications to protocols.
• Prepares figures and diagrams for presentations and publications.
• Communicates results and collaborates with other professionals in the lab.
• Demonstrates a significant level of intellectual input into the design of the project.
• Presents findings at lab meeting, responds to challenges, and participates in exchanges of ideas to advance the science.
• Reads and understands relevant scientific literature.
• Contributes to the preparation of articles on research outcomes and progress and to the submission of same for publication.
• Participates in the editing and proofing of grant proposals, annual grant reports, and manuscripts for publication and recommends modifications to the Principal Investigator.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university either in a life science or engineering field OR have 2 years work experience at a biotechnology / life science related position.
• Fast learner with high attention to detail
• Can follow and perform complex protocols
• Can effectively communicate scientific ideas and results
• Experience and ability to use a range of visual presentation tools such as MS Excel charts, Tableau, Keynote, Prezi and other similar tools preferred.
• Familiarity with database management tools (such as SQL, MS Access, and IBM Cognos BI) and knowledge programming tools (like Python, C++, and R) would be a plus.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills including a knowledge of statistical applications and techniques.
• Sound organizational and data management skills, and ability to handle several responsibilities and work under tight time constraints.
• Ability to work without direct supervision, paying close attention to detail and bearing independent responsibility for data accuracy.
• Proven experience in dealing with all levels of staff in responding to a wide range of inquiries.
• Ability to use tact, discretion, and sound judgment when dealing with confidential information.
• Team oriented and places high value on developing a positive company culture.
• Ability to grow from constructive criticism and mentorship
• Proven ability to manage large and complex databases and develop summary analysis, including summary tables and charts.
• Proficiency in the use of analytical and statistical software packages such as STATA, EViews, TSP, SPSS, Matlab and SAS.

Technical Experience with any of the following are a plus:

• Research lab experience in academia or industry
• Technical experience working with:
• Molecular diagnostics (e.g., NAAT, PCR, qPCR, ddPCR, NGS, Mass Array)
• Point-of-care testing (e.g., lateral flow immunoassay, ELISA, portable PCR, dipstick)
• DNA extraction (e.g., ethanol precipitation, commercial nucleic acid extraction kits)
• Antibody conjugation chemistry