Associate Research Scientist – Molecular Biology

VIRSCIO, INC.•New Haven, CT

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Associate Research Scientist position is responsible for designing, performing, and analyzing molecular biology experiments with a focus on single-cell sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, ddPCR, qPCR, western-blot, and related techniques. This role includes assay development, validation, troubleshooting, study reporting, and SOP generation. The Associate Research Scientist will work both independently and collaboratively with technicians and scientists across teams. The ideal candidate should possess deep technical expertise in molecular biology, strong data interpretation skills, and the ability to support method development in a regulated environment.

Requirements

PhD in molecular biology or life sciences with 0–2 years of postdoctoral or industry experience
Demonstrated experience in assay optimization, validation, and troubleshooting
Experience in analyzing complex data sets and interpreting experimental results
Experience in technical reporting and contributing to formal study reports
Strong hands-on experience with single-cell sequencing, ddPCR, and qPCR
High attention to detail and strong organizational skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills and technical writing.
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent time management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
Ability to function well in a high-paced and time pressured environment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
Clear and timely communication with team members across departments
Ability to train and guide junior team members effectively

Nice To Haves

0–2 years of postdoctoral or industry experience preferable
Ideally spatial transcriptomics experience
Fluency with artificial intelligence

Responsibilities

Independently lead the planning, execution, and reporting of molecular biology components within assigned projects.
Contribute as a scientific lead sponsor-funded studies, including exploratory and regulatory-aligned non-GLP studies, and internal R&D method validation initiatives.
Develop, optimize, and validate qPCR, ddPCR, and single-cell sequencing assays in alignment with study goals.
Generate and maintain validation documentation consistent with internal quality frameworks.
Conduct hands-on benchwork for molecular studies, ensuring high technical reproducibility and data integrity in nucleic acid quantification, gene expression profiling, and biomarker discovery.
Analyze molecular results, prepare formal study summaries, and contribute data sections to final sponsor reports.
Work closely with Study Directors and QA to ensure report clarity, scientific accuracy, and regulatory alignment.
Use bioinformatics tools, statistical software, and custom pipelines to interpret single-cell and PCR-based datasets.
Present findings to internal stakeholders and external collaborators as needed.
Draft and maintain SOPs for molecular assays, instruments, and workflows.
Ensure complete and compliant documentation in electronic notebooks and study folders.
Monitor lab supplies and reagent inventories.
Coordinate instrument calibration and troubleshooting with equipment vendors or internal support teams.
Partner with study director teams and histopathology to align timelines, share data, and support integrated study execution.
Promote and adhere to laboratory safety practices, including proper PPE usage and handling of biohazards and chemicals.
Participate in regular safety and quality training sessions.
Oversee the day-to-day engagement and performance of Research Technicians assigned to active studies or method development work.
Support onboarding and skills development of lab personnel through training and ongoing mentorship in molecular biology techniques and data integrity.
Ensure team compliance with SOPs, safety procedures, and project-specific technical standards.