Research Associate II, NAMkind™ Assays
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Junior Research Associate to support expansion of our NAMkind™ Tissue platform for drug-induced tissue injury and drug efficacy studies. The successful candidate will perform cell culture-based experiments, execute biomarker assays including ELISA, maintain high-quality laboratory documentation, and contribute to the generation of reproducible data supporting internal R&D and client-facing studies.
This role is ideal for an early-career scientist with strong tissue culture skills who is interested in applying advanced human-relevant in vitro models to drug discovery and safety assessment.
Key Responsibilities
Cell Culture & Tissue Model Support
- Maintain and culture primary mammalian cell types using aseptic technique.
- Thaw, expand, count, and prepare relevant cell populations for experimental studies.
- Assist with preparation and maintenance of multicellular cultures.
- Perform routine media exchanges, compound dosing, and sample collection according to SOPs.
- Monitor tissue morphology and culture health using microscopy and imaging systems.
Assay Execution
- Perform ELISA and other biochemical assays to evaluate tissue function and toxicity.
- Conduct viability, cytotoxicity, and functional endpoint assays.
- Prepare reagents, standards, controls, and assay plates.
- Operate plate readers and analyze assay quality metrics.
Experimental Operations
- Support execution of screening and mechanistic studies under the guidance of senior scientists.
- Maintain detailed electronic laboratory notebooks and experimental records.
- Assist with inventory management, reagent preparation, and laboratory organization.
Data Analysis & Reporting
- Compile, organize, and perform basic analysis of experimental data.
- Generate figures, tables, and summaries for study reports and internal presentations.
- Contribute to continuous improvement of protocols and laboratory workflows.
Qualifications
Required
- B.S. in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biomedical Engineering, or related life science discipline.
- 1-3 years of laboratory experience in cell culture or tissue culture.
- Hands-on experience performing ELISA assays.
- Familiarity with standard laboratory instrumentation and aseptic technique.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
Preferred
- Experience working with primary cells or 3D tissue models.
- Familiarity with GraphPad Prism, Microsoft Excel, or other data analysis software.
- Experience following SOPs and Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
Key Competencies
- Excellent laboratory technique and reproducibility
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Effective written and verbal communication
- Ability to manage multiple studies simultaneously
- Commitment to data integrity and scientific rigor.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and strong team-oriented mindset.