Research Associate II

About this opportunity:

At Freenome, we are seeking a Research Associate II to join our Reagent Development team within Genomic Early Development. As a Research Associate II, you will participate in the development of genomic assay technologies and contribute to Freenome’s multiomic product portfolio aimed at early cancer detection. You will work closely with Scientists, Automation Engineers, and Computational Biologists to develop, optimize, and characterize efficient automated workflows to improve experimental and clinical throughput in a regulated high throughput environment. You will also work with Operations, Quality, and Regulatory to transfer complex methodologies, processes, and assays to Operations to ensure the highest quality data is produced by our clinical lab. You are passionate about contributing to developing life-saving diagnostics through early cancer detection, and you will have a significant impact on the continued growth of an organization dedicated to changing the entire landscape of cancer.

The role reports to the Senior Manager of Genomic Early Development team. This role will be an onsite role based in Brisbane, California headquarters.

What you’ll do:

• Apply hands-on knowledge of molecular biology, nucleic-acid biochemistry and next generation sequencing to develop and optimize NGS based methods and processes following principles of Design Controls for IVD development
• Design and perform experiments to develop and optimize NGS workflow including DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, target capture, and sequencing
• Operate and maintain NGS related instruments such as automated liquid handlers, PCR instruments, and sequencers
• Conduct new reagents testing and develop reagent quality control methods
• Participate in troubleshooting issues, identify and implement process improvement for the entire analytical workflow
• Collaborate with research, computational scientists, and automation engineers to transfer research prototype assays from Research to Development
• Collaborate with Quality Control Lab, Manufacturing lab, Quality, and Regulatory to transfer reagent quality control methods and manufacturing processes from Development to Operations and support the implementation of the methods and processes in Operations
• Accurately record results in electronic lab notebooks, author work instructions and record forms, contribute to writing study protocols and reports. Diligently apply current Good Laboratory and Documentation Practices (cGLP, cGDP)
• Exemplify Freenome cultural values across the organization

Must haves:

• Bachelor’s in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field with 2+ years of experience in the life sciences or Master’s in molecular biology or a related field
• Hands-on experience in Next-gen sequencing (NGS) based automated assay development including extraction, library preparation, target capture, and sequencing
• Hands-on experience in nucleic acid preparation, amplification, and quantification (DNA/RNA extraction and purification, PCR, qPCR, ddPCR, Qubit, Fragment Analyzer, Tapestation)
• Experience in working with ctDNA/cfDNA as an analyte in NGS workflows
• Experience with automated platforms in plate-based, low-volume formats and experience working with automated liquid handlers
• High attention to detail and ability to record accurate and detailed observations, assess impact, and perform troubleshooting as required
• Ability to perform data analysis and to be critical of results obtained during experimentation
• 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) strongly desired
• Experience in programing in a scientific programming language (e.g., Python or R)

Benefits and additional information:

The US target range of our hourly rate for new hires is $31.67 - $49.52. You will also be eligible to receive pre-IPO equity, cash bonuses, and a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits depending on the position offered.  Please note that individual total compensation for this position will be determined at the Company’s sole discretion and may vary based on several factors, including but not limited to, location, skill level, years and depth of relevant experience, and education. We invite you to check out our career page @ freenome.com/job-openings/ for additional company information.  

Freenome is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer, and we value diversity. Freenome does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws.  

• Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
• Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)
• Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA)

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