Description
At Freenome, you will help develop assay technologies used to analyze patient samples and contribute to the mission of early detection and intervention in human disease.
As a Research Associate I/II, you will provide experience in next-generation-sequencing (NGS)-based analyses of DNA. Starting with a prototype assay, you will contribute to developing and validating clinical-grade assays to measure complex, blood-based analytes.
You will work closely with multiple teams including molecular research, computational science, automation engineering, and clinical operations to develop assays in a regulated, high-throughput environment. You will also identify ways to rapidly iterate and improve on existing methods to evaluate technologies that can enhance end-to-end test performance.
Responsibilities:
- Apply knowledge of molecular biology, nucleic-acid biochemistry, and next-generation sequencing to develop assays for DNA.
- Characterize automated assays by generating and analyzing experimental data.
- Gather high-quality data, take detailed notes, and openly communicate on lessons learned while performing experiments.
- Collaborate with research teams and computational biologists, understand how data reflect underlying molecular biology, and contribute to analyzing data and generating study conclusions.
- Present data in cross-functional teams.
- Participate in troubleshooting efforts and design experiments with some supervisor guidance.
- Help with process improvements across the lab by thinking critically about the execution of all experiments.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree with 1+ years of relevant industry experience or Master's degree in molecular biology, or a related field.
- Hands-on experience in NGS-based assay development including sample preparation, library preparation, target capture, and sequencing.
- Biological understanding of human cell-free nucleic acids, single-cell analysis methods, immunology, and/or cancer biology.
- High attention to detail and ability to record accurate and detailed observations, assess impact, and perform troubleshooting as required.
- Flexible and highly motivated to learn new skills and comfortable adapting to changing priorities.
- Ability to manually pipette with high confidence, accuracy, and precision.
- Clear and proactive communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with team members in the same and adjacent disciplines.
Nice to haves:
- Experience working in a regulated laboratory environment (CLIA, GLP/GCLP, IVD development).
- Experience with automated platforms in plate-based, low-volume formats and/or microfluidics and experience working with automated liquid handlers.
- Experience using ELN (electronic lab notebook) and LIMS (lab information management system).
- Familiarity with programming in a scientific programming language (e.g., Python or R).
Benefits:
- The US target range of our base hourly rate for new hires is $37.68 - $46.69.
- You will also be eligible to receive equity, cash bonuses, and a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits depending on the position offered.