Research Associate I

Job Description

Job Summary:

• We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our In Vivo Discovery team focused on developing Cliented vectors to reprogram cells in vivo for the treatment of cancer.
• The Research Associate, Research Discovery role is an entry-level scientific professional who performs hands-on laboratory experiments as part of a research team.
• Working under close supervision from experienced scientists, this individual executes routine experimental procedures and simple to moderately complex assays, following established protocols and good laboratory practices to ensure reliable results.
• The Research Associate systematically collects and analyzes data with guidance, maintains clear and thorough documentation of experiments, and communicates findings to support ongoing projects.
• This role emphasizes building core laboratory skills and scientific understanding, adaptability in learning new techniques, and collaboration within a team-oriented research environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Plan and perform assigned laboratory experiments of simple to moderate complexity under close supervision, following established protocols and procedures to obtain reliable results.
• Execute routine experimental tasks accurately and consistently after proper training, adhering to good laboratory practices and all safety guidelines.
• Identify and troubleshoot basic technical issues during experiments, implementing minor adjustments independently and seeking guidance from experienced scientists for more complex problems.
• Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data to recognize trends or outcomes, contributing to data interpretation with input from experienced team members.
• Maintain detailed and organized laboratory records (electronic laboratory notebooks, data logs) to document procedures, observations, and results clearly and thoroughly.
• Assist in preparing technical summaries or presentations to communicate findings to the team and supervisors.
• Work collaboratively with research team members and communicate progress regularly to supervisors and project leads, ensuring alignment with project goals and incorporating feedback into ongoing work.
• Adhere to all laboratory safety protocols and quality standards, helping to maintain a clean, safe, and compliant lab environment.
• Demonstrate adaptability by learning new experimental techniques or operating new instrumentation with guidance and continuously improve skills through feedback and practice.
• Contribute to a positive, team-oriented lab culture by being reliable and proactive, offering assistance to colleagues and helping to train new team members on basic laboratory procedures when needed.
• Occasional weekend work might be required.

Experience and Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related life science field (required).
• 0–2 years of hands-on laboratory research experience in an academic or industry setting (this may include internships or co-op experience).
• Experience with molecular biology is suggested.
• Prior experience with culturing bacteria and bacteria transformation is preferred
• Prior experience with plasmid cloning, amplification, and analysis is preferred.
• Experience in a collaborative research environment (academic lab, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical setting) is a plus, demonstrating ability to work effectively in team-driven projects.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to high quality data generation.
• Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, Prism, and other programs to create and distribute reports and key information.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work onsite in a laboratory environment.
• Solid foundation in biological sciences and basic laboratory techniques, with the ability to perform routine experimental procedures and follow protocols with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Familiarity with basic data analysis methods; able to process experimental data and use common software tools (e.g., spreadsheets, graphing programs) to summarize and visualize results.
• Excellent documentation and record-keeping skills to maintain clear and thorough electronic lab notebooks (Benchling) and records of experiments, observations, and outcomes.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal) to effectively report experimental results and observations to team members and supervisors.
• Knowledge of and commitment to laboratory safety procedures and good laboratory practices, ensuring quality and compliance in all experimental activities.
• Strong time management abilities to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and meet project deadlines.
• Collaborative working style and a positive team-oriented attitude, with a willingness to work closely with colleagues, share knowledge, and contribute to team goals.
• Eagerness to learn and adapt quickly to new techniques or equipment, with an openness to feedback and a commitment to continuous improvement.