Associate Research Scientist I, Product Development

Exact Sciences • Madison, WI

3d • $64,000 - $105,000 • Onsite

About The Position

At Exact Sciences, we’re helping change how the world prevents, detects and guides treatment for cancer. We give patients and clinicians the clarity needed to make confident decisions when they matter most. Join our team to find a purpose-driven career, an inclusive culture, and robust benefits to support your life while you’re working to help others. The Associate Research Associate I, with guidance from more experienced scientists, assists in the day to day experimental work that includes execution of bench experiments, and gathering and assembling of data. Working in a team setting, the Associate Research Associate I will primarily be involved in Research and Development projects assisting in translating research ideas and concepts into the product development pipeline towards development of diagnostic assay products. This role will directly support late‑stage Multi Cancer Early Detection (MCED) product development by executing studies such as stability testing, design verification and validation, on‑market performance improvements, and investigations related to product performance or manufacturing issues. The individual will be responsible for learning and applying a range of molecular biology techniques across pre‑analytical workflows (including blood processing and nucleic acid extraction), as well as qPCR, protein‑based, and NGS‑based methods. Success in this position requires the ability to operate effectively in a fast‑paced, milestone‑driven product development environment and to collaborate closely with cross‑functional partners. This work contributes directly to the development and continuous improvement of diagnostics within our early cancer detection program, which operates under aggressive timelines and strict quality expectations.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Chemical/Physical/Biological Science, or related field.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in country where work will be performed on a full or part-time basis.
• We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.
• Demonstrated ability to perform the Essential Duties of the position with or without accommodation.

Nice To Haves

• Foundational knowledge and hands‑on experience with molecular biology techniques, including qPCR, NGS, and/or immunoassay‑based methods, especially as applied in product development workflows.
• 1+ years of experience in a product development, clinical laboratory, or relevant industry experience supporting assay development, verification/validation, or process improvement activities.
• Self‑motivated individual who thrives in a fast‑paced, high‑energy team environment and is eager to contribute to the advancement of diagnostic products.

Responsibilities

• Conduct bench level experiments within a specific product or technology area.
• Generate data; accurately record and analyze results of bench level experiments within a specific product or technology area.
• Operate scientific instrumentation related to performance of duties and notifies appropriate personnel of any problems.
• Effectively utilize and apply established methods or technologies.
• Maintain lab notebook in a complete and consistent manner, following all legal, ISO, and QSR requirements, as well as keeping clear and complete.
• Prepare reports and documentation providing the experimental methods and results.
• Communicate experimental results to supervisor or other scientists.
• Possess potential for technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaboration with others, and independent thought.
• Exercise judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action.
• Work with project team members on assignments to meet department and project objectives.
• Ability to complete assignments in expected time frames.
• Ability to work in a BSL-2 environment following Biosafety guidelines.
• Ability to communicate project status to project leader.
• Ability to collaborate and work effectively within team and department.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Uphold company mission and values through accountability, innovation, integrity, quality, and teamwork.
• Support and comply with the company’s Quality Management System policies and procedures.
• Regular and reliable attendance.
• Ability to work nights and/or weekends, as needed.
• Ability to lift to 20 pounds for approximately 5% of a typical working day.
• Ability to work on a mobile device, tablet, or in front of a computer screen and/or perform typing for approximately 50% of a typical working day.
• Ability to grasp with both hands; pinch with thumb and forefinger; turn with hand/arm; reach above shoulder height.
• Ability to comply with any applicable personal protective equipment requirements.
• Ability to use various types of laboratory equipment including microscopes, microtomes, blades, strainers, pipettes for extended periods of time.
• May perform repetitious actions using lab tools.
• Ability to use near vision to view samples at close range.
• May be exposed to hazardous materials, tissue specimens and instruments with moving parts, lasers, heating and freezing elements, and high-speed centrifugation.
• Ability and means to travel between Exact Sciences locations.
• Ability to travel 5% of working time away from work location, may include overnight/weekend travel.

Benefits

• paid time off (including days for vacation, holidays, volunteering, and personal time)
• paid leave for parents and caregivers
• a retirement savings plan
• wellness support
• health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level