Posted in

Research Associate 1 – IVD Product Support

Research Associate 1 – IVD Product Support

CompanyNatera
LocationAustin, TX, USA
Salary$Not Provided – $Not Provided
TypeFull-Time
DegreesBachelor’s
Experience LevelEntry Level/New Grad, Junior

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, or related field
  • Minimum of 1-2 year of Molecular Biology laboratory experience and or relevant industry experience in a research and/or assay development setting

Responsibilities

  • Assist with the designing, planning and, executing of development and V&V laboratory experiments using various molecular biology and general laboratory techniques to prepare samples for Next Generation Sequencing
  • Perform library preparation for NextGen sequencing using automated and manual methods
  • Determine quantity and/or quality of nucleic acids using Quant-IT, Qubit, BioAnalyzer, and qPCR
  • Coordinate across multiple internal groups (laboratory operations, scientific operations, CLIA, Quality Assurance)
  • Participate in the planning of logistical workflow processes and suggest process improvements to subject matter experts as needed
  • Perform basic data analysis (JMP) and maintain a detailed and organized laboratory notebook and accurate records of lab work using a variety of software including Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, and internal databases
  • Periodically review standard operating procedures (SOP) and other work instructions. Assisting in the development and writing of laboratory procedures and techniques.
  • Receive and process laboratory specimens following standard methods and procedures with meticulous attention to detail.
  • Identifying necessary kits and reagents for development and production sets and locating them via inventory or freezer maps.
  • Performing physical transfers of reagents from freezers to designated locations for production use.
  • Recording all stock movements and issues using inventory control systems.
  • Track samples using LIMS, database queries, and advanced Excel techniques; verify the accuracy of specimens being processed and analyzed
  • Adapt to handle multiple tasks and priorities and perform other duties as assigned
  • Learn the science behind ongoing research projects while actively completing increasingly complex tasks

Preferred Qualifications

  • Must have hands-on experience with good pipetting practices (single and multi-channel micropipettes, serological pipettes)
  • Hands-on experience with nucleic acid techniques (purification, quantification, amplification using PCR, qPCR, Quant-IT/Qubit, BioAnalyzer or TapeStation)
  • Hands-on experience with NGS library preparation and Illumina sequencing platforms highly preferred (NovaSeq, NextSeq, iSeq, etc.) is highly desired
  • DNA extraction from biological samples.
  • Working knowledge of laboratory safety, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and regulatory standards such as CLIA requirements.
  • Able to operate independently in a fast-paced lab under general supervision, managing multiple tasks and priorities with minimal errors.
  • Ability to lift up to 20 lbs, frequent standing and walking, occasional sitting, etc. Occasional exposure to cold temperatures.
  • Effective communication skills, including gathering information from different teams, communicating with suppliers, writing protocols, and summarizing results in reports or presentations
  • Excellent with Microsoft Office programs and Google Drive including Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms
  • Ability to think creatively and analytically with strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Team player with demonstrated strong interpersonal skills with an ability to build effective working relationships within functional area