Research Associate 2/ Sr. Research Associate - Assay Development
About The Position
At Personalis, we are transforming the active management of cancer through breakthrough personalized testing. We aim to drive a new paradigm for cancer management, guiding care from biopsy through the life of the patient. Our highly sensitive assays combine tumor-and-normal profiling with proprietary algorithms to deliver advanced insights even as cancer evolves over time. Our products are designed to detect minimal residual disease (MRD) and recurrence at the earliest timepoints, enable selection of targeted therapies based on ultra-comprehensive genomic profiling, and enhance biomarker strategy for drug development. Personalis is based in Fremont, California. In this role, you will collaborate with a multidisciplinary R&D team of scientists, assay developers, and clinicians to plan, execute, and analyze cutting-edge oncology solutions. You will provide hands-on NGS equipment operation and library preparation using real-world samples to develop novel precision medicine products used by pharma, biotech, and clinical partners.
Requirements
- BS/MS in Molecular Biology, Genomics, Biochemistry, or a related biological science.
- 3+ years of hands-on molecular biology laboratory experience (biotech/pharma preferred).
- Proficiency in DNA/RNA extraction, quality control (e.g., Qubit, TapeStation), and NGS library preparation.
- Strong organizational and communication skills with a drive to learn in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with liquid biopsy (cfDNA/cfRNA) or FFPE sample processing is strongly preferred.
Responsibilities
- Support R&D scientists in developing, optimizing, and validating novel oncology assays and workflows.
- Extract DNA/RNA from biological samples (blood, tissue) and construct high-quality libraries for Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS).
- Process sample cohorts for critical assay validation studies and external industry/academic collaborations under tight timelines.
- Evaluate new protocols as a front-line user and provide constructive feedback to optimize standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Maintain meticulous sample tracking and experimental records in lab notebooks; present findings in team meetings.
- Maintain compliance with safety guidelines, quality standards, and company policies.
Benefits
- annual performance-based bonus (or a sales incentive plan)
- long-term incentive units (equity)
- medical
- dental
- vision
- 401(k) match
- ESPP
- tuition reimbursement
- sick/vacation time
- commuter benefits
- EV charging stations
- onsite gym
- wellness benefits
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
