Research Associate – Chemistry/Biochemistry

Abbott • San Diego, CA

1d • $73,900 - $116,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Abbott Rapid Diagnostics is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate II – Chemistry/Biochemistry to join its Research & Development team in San Diego, California. This hands-on laboratory role supports the synthesis, purification, characterization, and evaluation of oligonucleotides used in diagnostic applications. The successful candidate works closely with multidisciplinary teams to provide high-quality oligonucleotide reagents for developing diagnostic technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
• 2–5 years of laboratory experience in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, or related fields.
• Hands-on experience with oligonucleotide synthesis, cleavage, and deprotection techniques.
• Familiarity with analytical characterization methods such as HPLC, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality results.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience operating and maintaining automated oligonucleotide synthesizers, such as Dr. Oligo, MerMade, or equivalent systems.
• Hands-on experience with post-synthetic oligonucleotide modification and conjugation chemistry involving fluorophores, quenchers, or other ligands.
• Strong understanding of solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis processes and common oligonucleotide modifications, including fluorescent labels.
• Experience with oligonucleotide purification using reverse-phase and ion-exchange chromatography.
• Proficiency with analytical platforms including Agilent and/or ÄKTA chromatography systems.
• Experience with LC-MS analysis for oligonucleotide characterization.
• Knowledge of solid-phase organic synthesis principles and their application to oligonucleotide chemistry.
• Experience supporting diagnostic assay development or molecular diagnostics projects.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize DNA and RNA oligonucleotides using automated oligonucleotide synthesizers.
• Perform oligonucleotide cleavage, deprotection, purification, and characterization using established laboratory methods.
• Purify oligonucleotides using reverse-phase HPLC, ion-exchange HPLC, or cartridge-based purification systems.
• Conduct analytical testing using HPLC, UV-Vis spectroscopy, LC-MS, and related techniques.
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation, including procedures, synthesis records, yields, and quality-control results.
• Support assay development and product development teams by providing high-quality oligonucleotides and technical feedback.
• Execute biochemical experiments and sample preparation procedures under supervision.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and perform routine preventative maintenance and calibration.

Benefits

• Free medical coverage for employees via the Health Investment Plan (HIP) PPO.
• Retirement savings plan with high employer contribution.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Freedom 2 Save student debt program.
• FreeU education benefit, an affordable and convenient path to getting a bachelor's degree.
• Career development opportunities with an international company.

What This Job Offers

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