Role Logistics & Working Arrangements

100% on-site; occasional work-from-home permitted for data analysis once trained).

Duration: 1-year contract (potential for extension/conversion, but not guaranteed).

Hours / Schedule: Standard 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Flexible once fully trained (± 1–2 hours start/end time flexibility).

Core Technical Skills (Non-Negotiable):

• PCR Experience: Solid hands-on experience with genomic techniques (PCR, dPCR/digital PCR, and DNA extractions—either manual or automated).
• Cell Handling: Direct experience handling human or mammalian cells (specifically human T cells / cell therapy experience is highly desired).
• Good Laboratory Practices (GLP): Firm understanding of standard laboratory safety and operating procedures.

[Education & Experience Requirements:

• 1 year of lab experience, OR Master’s Degree (Life Sciences) with 0 years of post-grad experience (entry-level MS accepted).
• Industry experience in cell therapy/biotech is preferred/ideal, but academic lab experience is acceptable for entry-level candidates.

Soft Skills / Communication:

• Must be able to proactively speak up and communicate when instruments are malfunctioning or failing (no need to fix them, just report/escalate).

What the Role Entails (Day-to-Day Responsibilities)

Sample Processing & Genomics:

• Daily processing of samples using genomic workflows (DNA extractions, running PCR / dPCR).
• Culturing, handling, and preparing human T cells / mammalian cells.

Lab Operations & Inventory:

• Managing reagent inventory and placing orders for consumables as they are used.
• Reporting instrument issues/faults to ensure quick maintenance and calibration.

Data Analysis & Documentation:

• Performing basic data analysis and maintaining standard lab records/documentation.

Position Summary

• The Research Associate, Analytical Sciences will be responsible for the execution of routine testing, including but not limited to molecular biology assays and cell-based assays and to characterize T cell therapy processes and products.
• Additionally, this role contributes to the daily operational tasks in the Analytical Sciences team. This role is based in Santa Monica, CA.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Perform routine analytical testing to characterize cell products or processes primarily using DNA/RNA extraction/quantification, dPCR, live cell imaging, and plate-based assays.
• Accurately complete eLN documentation contemporaneously for the lab work in which it pertains to.
• Participate in eLN template drafting, revisions, and ensure executable templates are comprehensive.
• Participate in tracking assay results and test method performance parameters.
• Assist in everyday operation of analytical laboratories, including but not limited to equipment management, lab maintenance and restocking, and reagent inventory.
• Support cross-functional projects with process development, manufacturing, quality control, and quality assurance groups.

Required Skills/Abilities

• Hands-on experience in performing and analyzing qPCR/dPCR and/or cell-based assays is preferred.
• Detail-oriented in both technical assay execution and data analysis.
• Must be eager to learn and willing to ask questions.
• Experience in flow cytometry assays and equipment/software is a plus.
• Enjoy a fast-paced, dynamic team and company environment and able to adjust tasks based upon changing priorities.

Education and Experience

• MS Degree in Biology, Chemistry, or related discipline with relevant experience.
• BS degree in Biology, Chemistry, or related discipline with 1 years of relevant experience.
• Experience working in a regulated environment (e.g. GMP, GLP, or CLIA) is a plus.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to:

• Sit, stand, walk and communicate verbally (i.e. speak and hear).
• The employee is frequently required to use their hands and arms to reach and grasp (i.e. tactile functioning).
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus in order to read.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
• May be required to travel by plane or car 5% of the time
• This position requires working with biological and/or chemical hazards