Scientist III

Job Description

Job Summary:

• Scientist III (Contract) to support high-impact research and development programs within the Sample Preparation R&D team.
• This 1-year contract role will focus on developing and optimizing bead-based nucleic acid extraction and direct-to-qPCR workflows for advanced molecular biology applications.
• The ideal candidate will bring strong hands-on experience with magnetic bead–based nucleic acid purification and qPCR and will contribute to multiple R&D initiatives aimed at improving sensitivity, speed, and workflow efficiency for nucleic acid extraction and detection across research and applied markets.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Design, execute, and analyze laboratory experiments supporting bead-based DNA and RNA extraction workflows.
• Develop and optimize lysis-to-qPCR and direct-to-PCR sample preparation workflows, including Cells-to-CT–style approaches.
• Perform qPCR and RT-qPCR assays to evaluate workflow performance, sensitivity, and robustness.
• Support development of sample preparation solutions for complex biological matrices (e.g., plasma, serum, cell culture media, bodily fluids).
• Document experimental results clearly and contribute to technical reports and data summaries.
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners including assay development, automation, and product development teams.
• Adhere to laboratory safety, quality, and data integrity standards.

Required Qualifications:

• 1+ year Hands-on experience with magnetic bead–based nucleic acid extraction (DNA and/or RNA).
• 3+ months Experience with direct-to-PCR or lysis-only workflows.
• 1+ year Strong working knowledge of qPCR and RT-qPCR, including assay setup, data analysis, and troubleshooting.
• 6+ months Experience working with biological samples and chemical lysis methods.
• Ability to independently plan and execute experiments while meeting project timelines.
• Ability to use basic analytical techniques and equipment to formulate buffers (molarity calculations, pH meter, balances, etc.)
• Experience with Excel and PowerPoint.
• Education experience does count toward the required experience in the above skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with automated sample preparation platforms (e.g., Kingfishers systems).
• Experience working in an R&D or product development laboratory environment.
• Experience JMP statistical analysis software.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Strong independent experimental design and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• High attention to detail and data quality.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Physical Requirements:

• Able to pipet, work in a BSL2 laboratory, lift up to 20 lbs.

Required Education:

• Bachelor’s degree with 4+ years, or Master’s degree with 2+ years, of relevant experience in molecular biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, or a related field.