Research Associate I

SecureBio•Boston, MA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

SecureBio is seeking a Research Associate I to support their biosurveillance network by processing wastewater and nasal swab samples. This role is crucial for scaling the lab's operations and reducing sample turnaround time. The Research Associate will perform sample concentration, extraction, and quantification, and also support molecular processing and library preparation. This position offers an opportunity to quickly build technical depth, work with unique sample types, and contribute to a mission-driven team where new ideas are welcomed. The role involves rigorous documentation, adherence to SOPs, maintaining lab spaces and equipment, inventory management, and troubleshooting workflow issues. The lab is transitioning to include automation, and the new hire will be part of this process.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a life sciences field.
2+ years of hands-on wet-lab experience (academic experience counts).
Hands-on experience with sample processing, PCR, and nucleic acid extraction and quantification.
Experience with data entry in an electronic laboratory notebook.
Demonstrated ability to follow laboratory protocols carefully and capture rigorous, organised notes.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Willingness to take on operational and lab upkeep tasks alongside scientific work.
Proactive mindset: comfort speaking up, flagging issues, and suggesting improvements to workflows.
Ability to work collaboratively, take direction well, and communicate clearly across a small team.

Nice To Haves

Some experience or familiarity working with RNA.
Exposure to short- and/or long-read sequencing workflows, including NGS sample processing and library preparation.
Experience working with viruses.
Familiarity with inventory, ordering, or sample tracking systems.
Experience with environmental or complex samples such as wastewater or nasal swabs.
Exposure to liquid handling automation or high-throughput lab environments.
General awareness of metagenomic or pathogen surveillance applications.

Responsibilities

Perform sample processing, including receiving wastewater and nasal swab samples, concentration, extraction, and quantification.
Support molecular processing and library preparation, particularly on weekend days.
Document work rigorously in an electronic laboratory notebook.
Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) carefully.
Flag issues or suggest improvements to workflows.
Maintain clean, ready lab spaces and equipment.
Support upkeep, calibration, and service requests for lab equipment.
Uphold safety and compliance standards.
Maintain reagent and consumable inventory, including stock monitoring, reorders, deliveries, and vendor coordination.
Maintain accurate metadata and sample tracking.
Support clean, standardized handoffs to the next stage in the pipeline.
Troubleshoot workflow issues, escalating to senior staff where appropriate and supporting corrective actions.