Research Associate II - High Throughput Screening Core

City of Hope • Duarte, CA

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About The Position

A Research Associate II position is available in the High Throughput Screening (HTS) Core at the Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope. The HTS Core supports early-stage drug discovery through assay development and optimization, high-throughput small-molecule screening, hit identification and validation, and lead optimization. It provides investigators with automated screening capabilities, a collection of more than 250,000 small molecules, and scientific expertise in biochemical and cell-based assay development.

The role works closely with investigators to develop, optimize, and execute small-molecule screening, hit validation, and quantitative data analysis. It involves extensive hands-on laboratory work and collaboration with HTS Core staff and investigators across drug-discovery and translational research projects. The Core also uses advanced translational screening technologies, including 3D and organoid model imaging and profiling, high-content imaging, and image-based phenotypic screening; experience in these areas is valued.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree.
• At least 2 years of related experience with a bachelor’s degree, or at least 1 year of related experience with a master’s degree.
• Hands-on experience with biochemical and cell-based assay development, optimization, validation, and troubleshooting, including protein biochemical and reporter assays.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture and complex in vitro models, including primary cells, organoids, spheroids, 3D cultures, patient-derived models, and co-culture systems.
• Experience with high-throughput screening, compound screening, hit validation, lead-optimization workflows, and automated liquid-handling systems.
• Experience with high-content and live-cell imaging, phenotypic screening, and quantitative image analysis.
• Ability to independently execute experiments, analyze data, troubleshoot, and maintain accurate, reproducible records.
• Proficiency in GraphPad, LIMS, and Microsoft Office.
• Strong organizational, communication, and collaboration skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, work effectively across scientific teams, and write and follow protocols.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree.
• Experience with advanced translational screening technologies, including 3D or organoid model imaging and profiling, high-content imaging, or image-based phenotypic screening.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, validate, and miniaturize biochemical and cell-based assays for drug discovery and small-molecule screening.
• Design and execute high-throughput and medium-throughput screening campaigns, including primary screening, hit confirmation, concentration-response studies, counter-screens, and orthogonal or secondary validation assays.
• Use and support laboratory automation, liquid handling, multimode detection, and other screening technologies to establish efficient and reproducible drug-discovery workflows.
• Develop and apply high-content imaging and image-based phenotypic assays, including live-cell and multiparametric imaging.
• Manage multiple collaborative projects while maintaining experimental rigor, reproducibility, data integrity, documentation, and timely project execution.
• Develop and standardize protocols, provide technical guidance and training, and contribute to a collaborative multidisciplinary research environment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level