Research Associate

Please be aware that, as a condition of employment, proof of COVID vaccination is required for all U.S.-based employees (subject to limited exceptions).

To ensure the health and safety of all PacBio employees and our prospective candidates, we have instituted a virtual interview and onboarding experience

We are seeking a Research Associate to support the team in accelerating the research and development efforts for our proprietary clustering technology. The ideal candidate will have working knowledge and experience in molecular biology techniques, automated systems, next-generation sequencing methods and technologies, writing and updating SOP documentation, bioinformatics analysis, presentation making, preparing reagents, and maintaining laboratory inventory. This position will also require the ability to work cross-functionally with bioinformatics, engineering, and manufacturing departments. Candidate will report directly to manager for day-to-day duties and planning but will also take assignments from higher level managers above.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Execute SOPs for clustering flowcells.
• Perform custom clustering experiments, as a service to other groups.
• Perform and assist in testing and validation of new protocols and reagents.
• Perform analytical protocols for quality control of reagents.
• Analyze sequencing run data, make data figures for PowerPoint slides, and present the findings in meetings.
• Write and revise SOPs as assigned.
• Help manage and order inventory.
• Prepare reagents and write and maintain batch and lot documentation.
• Track and enter data in spreadsheets.
• Assist in cleaning and maintaining the laboratory.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues. Observe and report causes of errors.

EDUCATION, SKILLS, & EXPERIENCE:

• Requires a B.S. in Biochemistry, Molecular/Cell Biology, Biology or a related field and 2+ years of relevant experience.
• Comfortable with performing repetitive tasks, such as pipetting, aliquoting, and manual assembly of components.
• Familiarity and experience with molecular biology techniques.
• Next-generation sequencing experience and knowledge is a highly desired. Experience in with next-generation sequencing library preparation, isothermal amplification, and some understanding of surface covalent chemistry are advantages.
• Working knowledge and experience with nucleic acid sequencing data analysis and bioinformatics tools is highly desired.
• Customer service experience in any field is desirable.

ATTITUDE & ATTRIBUTES:

• The candidate must have a strong work ethic and show a willingness to spend the extra time and effort to make sure that tasks are done right rather than just quickly.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills will facilitate interactions with a highly interdisciplinary team.
• Organized with the ability to multitask and switch priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be willing to assist others with a helpful and courteous attitude.
• Can work under pressure to meet presentation deadlines.
• Candidates that are self-motivated in helping to maintain supplies, make reagent stocks, clean the laboratory, and order needed items are highly desired.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Most of the job consists of performing experiments in the laboratory, which requires dexterity but not so much in the way of speed or strength. Experimental work is usually not constant but rather involves performing a series of different tasks.
• The job involves moving around boxes and bottles of solutions that are sometimes heavy but usually light. Cart pushing and pulling may be done on a regular basis.
• Computer work is a daily aspect of this job. Prolonged periods of typing and using a computer mouse and looking at a monitor are required for data entry, data analysis, and presentation preparation.

 
All listed tasks and responsibilities are deemed as essential functions to this position; however, business conditions may require reasonable accommodations for additional tasks and responsibilities.
 
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability, gender identity, and sexual orientation.