Associate Scientist – Disease Detection and Diagnostics

MRIGlobal•Kansas City, MO

8d•$66,000 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

MRIGlobal is seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist to join our Integrated Health Surveillance & Diagnostics (IHSD) Research & Development team in Kansas City, MO. This on-site position offers the opportunity to contribute to impactful research programs that advance human health, biotechnology, and next-generation diagnostic technologies. The successful candidate will support assay and product development, laboratory testing and evaluation, and a variety of research activities within a fast-paced biology laboratory environment. Ideal candidates will have a strong foundation in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or a related discipline, along with industry or CRO experience and a desire to apply their scientific expertise to real-world challenges.

Requirements

B.S. in Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, or a related life science discipline with 3-5 years of relevant experience; or M.S. in a related field with at least 1 year of relevant experience
Hands-on experience with mammalian stem cell culture, including induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), primary cells, or other advanced cell culture systems
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a multidisciplinary team
Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
Well-organized, adaptable, and able to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic research environment
Commitment to laboratory safety, security, and quality standards
Experience maintaining accurate, organized, and traceable laboratory records
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and scientific data analysis software
Must be a U.S. Citizen

Nice To Haves

Experience in reproductive biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, tissue engineering, or a related field
Experience working with microphysiological systems, organ-on-chip platforms, 3D tissue models, organoids, or other advanced in vitro models
Proficiency in microscopy techniques, including fluorescence and confocal microscopy, image acquisition, and analysis
Strong molecular and cell biology laboratory skills, including nucleic acid isolation, PCR, RT-qPCR, ELISA, Western blotting, immunostaining, and fluorescence imaging
Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot experimental methods, optimize protocols, and propose alternative scientific approaches
Experience working in a contract research organization (CRO), biotechnology, diagnostics, or biopharmaceutical research environment
Experience working in regulated research environments and supporting sponsor- or government-funded research programs

Responsibilities

Conduct laboratory research and execute experiments under the guidance of Principal Investigators and technical leads
Support assay development, testing, optimization, and troubleshooting activities
Work with mammalian stem cells, cell culture systems, and advanced in vitro models
Develop and maintain SOPs, laboratory procedures, and study documentation
Analyze, summarize, and communicate experimental results to project teams
Collaborate with scientists across multiple disciplines to advance research objectives and deliver client-funded programs
Ensure compliance with laboratory safety, quality, and regulatory requirements
Support the timely execution of project deliverables and technical milestones