# Research Associate I/II, Cloning/IVT (Contract)

**Company**: Terrana Biosciences
**Location**: Cambridge, MA
**Job type**: contract
**Salary**: $31 - $45 per hour
**Category**: Research
**Industry**: Other

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## Description

Terrana Biosciences is building a new generation of RNA-based technologies to transform agriculture. We are seeking a Research Associate I to join our IVT Production team and support the generation of high-quality RNA materials that enable discovery, platform development, and product advancement across the company.

Key Responsibilities:

- Execute DNA assembly and molecular cloning workflows to generate constructs supporting research and RNA production.

- Perform bacterial transformation, colony screening, plasmid preparation, and sequence verification to identify and confirm successful constructs.

- Execute in vitro transcription (IVT) workflows to produce RNA supporting research and development programs.

- Perform RNA synthesis, purification, quantification, and quality control using established laboratory methods.

- Prepare DNA templates, reagents, and materials required for IVT production workflows.

- Conduct routine molecular biology techniques including PCR, gel electrophoresis, and nucleic acid quantification.

- Maintain accurate experimental records and track samples using electronic laboratory systems.

- Support high-throughput RNA production operations while ensuring quality, reproducibility, and timely delivery.

- Contribute to workflow optimization, process improvements, and laboratory organization.

- Collaborate with Molecular Biology, Discovery, Sequencing, and Bioinformatics teams to support project objectives.

Professional Experience & Qualifications:

- B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Genetics, or a related field.

- RA I: B.S. Degree and up to 2 years of relevant laboratory experience in academic or industry settings

- RA II: B.S. Degree and 2–4 years or M.S. and up to 2 years of relevant laboratory experience in academic or industry settings

- Experience with basic molecular biology techniques, including PCR, nucleic acid handling, and gel electrophoresis.

- Strong attention to detail, organization, and record-keeping skills.

- Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

- Experience with RNA handling, in vitro transcription, or nucleic acid purification workflows.

- Familiarity with high-throughput laboratory operations, automation platforms, or LIMS systems.

- Experience in synthetic biology, RNA biology, or agricultural biotechnology.

The pay range for this role is $31 - $45 per hour and the contractor will be employed by a third-party staffing company. Certain employee benefits may be available to the contractor through the staffing company after meeting minimum criteria.

## Skills

### Required
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
- Biotechnology
- Genetics
- PCR
- gel electrophoresis
- nucleic acid quantification

### Nice to have
- RNA handling
- in vitro transcription
- nucleic acid purification workflows
- high-throughput laboratory operations
- automation platforms
- LIMS systems
- synthetic biology
- RNA biology
- agricultural biotechnology

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