Research Associate, Clinical Research, Research Scientist

Overview

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.

• 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.

• Assay development
• PCR
• Molecular biology
• Bacterial culturing
• Spectrometry
• In vitro Diagnostics
• Aseptic technique
• Digital PCR
• qPCR
• Lab technique
• Nucleic acid extractions
• Microbiology

• 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.
• Good organizational skills.
• Proficiency in computer skills (e-mail, word processing, excel, graphing and analytic software).

You will be part of a team consisting of 4-5 scientists and 4-5 engineers, working together in Carlsbad, CA. The work involves developing in vitro diagnostic (IVD) product development and automating laboratory techniques within disposable devices. The environment is designed to foster collaboration among scientists and engineers, providing mentorship from experienced Scientists/Sr. Scientists.

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)

Workplace Type:
This is a fully onsite position in Carlsbad, CA. Final date to receive applications:
This position is anticipated to close on Jan 27, 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 actalentaccom for other accommodation options.