Research Associate

Research Associate

Job Description

We are seeking a Research Associate with a focus on microbiology, who will later expand into molecular biology. The role involves executing straightforward and repetitive tasks, including bacterial culturing and plating to grow bacteria, and using UV Vis spectrophotometry to monitor microbial growth. Initially, the work requires handling blood, but appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and BSL-2 facilities are provided, along with necessary training. Following the microbiology project, the Research Associate will work under the direction of a Scientist/Sr. Scientist on product development projects, designing and implementing experiments to develop and optimize assays on the bench and within consumable devices.

Responsibilities

• Execute bacterial culturing and plating to grow bacteria.
• Perform UV Vis spectrophotometry to monitor microbial growth.
• Maintain good aseptic technique and strong lab organizational skills.
• Work with blood using provided PPE and BSL-2 facilities.
• Design and implement experiments for assay development and optimization.
• Take detailed notes and follow good documentation practices.
• Summarize and communicate experimental data and draw independent conclusions.
• Identify and resolve assay and device performance issues.

Essential Skills

• Assay Development
• PCR
• Molecular Biology & Microbiology
• Bacterial Culturing
• Spectrometry
• In vitro Diagnostics
• Aseptic Technique
• Digital PCR & qPCR
• Nucleic acid extractions

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• BA/BS or MA/MS in life sciences with 2+ years relevant lab experience.
• Sound fundamental knowledge of chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, or related fields.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and in multi-disciplinary teams.
• Proficiency in computer skills (e-mail, word processing, excel, graphing and analytic software).

This is a Contract position based out of Carlsbad, CA.

The pay range for this position is $27.00 - $35.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Carlsbad,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on Mar 2, 2026.

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.