Research Associate

At Freenome, we are seeking an eager Research Associate to join our Scientific Operations team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for biospecimen accessioning, processing whole blood samples into plasma, and supporting downstream analytical testing using Freenome's multiomics assays. This role is crucial in our mission to change the landscape of cancer and make a positive impact on patients' lives. The Research Associate will report to the Technical Lead, Scientific Operations and will have the opportunity to contribute to process improvements and collaborate with a diverse team.

• Perform routine lab work including pre-analytical sample processing, plasma isolation, and downstream genomics and proteomics assay processing
• Operate liquid handler instruments to carry out experiments
• Troubleshoot instrument and sample processing errors as needed; escalate and report issues through appropriate channels as needed
• Identify and implement process improvements across the lab by thinking critically about the execution of all experiments
• Verify all aspects of incoming specimens and assess acceptability for analytical testing
• Maintain documentation for executed experiments
• Perform equipment maintenance according to the laboratory’s standard operating procedures for the following but not limited to: Hamiltons, Biosafety Cabinets, centrifuges, freezers, refrigerators, and pipettes, as needed
• Assist with training of new laboratory personnel and training of new procedures with existing personnel
• Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory’s established performance specifications
• Report all concerns of test quality and/or safety to the Supervisor or Safety Officer
• Perform other miscellaneous laboratory duties as assigned and assist others as time allows

• Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, chemical biology, or a related field
• 2+ years of experience in performing routine lab work including pre-analytical sample processing, plasma isolation, and downstream genomics and proteomics assay processing
• Experience operating liquid handler instruments to carry out experiments
• Ability to troubleshoot instrument and sample processing errors and escalate and report issues as needed
• Strong critical thinking skills to identify and implement process improvements across the lab
• Knowledge of verifying incoming specimens and assessing acceptability for analytical testing
• Documentation skills for maintaining records of executed experiments
• Ability to perform equipment maintenance according to standard operating procedures
• Experience with training new laboratory personnel and training on new procedures
• Knowledge of documenting corrective actions when test systems deviate from performance specifications
• Strong attention to test quality and safety
• Ability to perform miscellaneous laboratory duties as assigned and assist others as time allows

• Pre-IPO equity
• Cash bonuses
• Full range of medical, financial, and other benefits
• Equal-opportunity employer
• Diversity valued
• Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protection
• Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) protection
• Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) protection