Senior Research Associate, NGS - Genomics Platform (Fixed-Term Contract)

Arc Institute•Palo Alto, CA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated, well-organized, and technically proficient Senior Research Associate to join the Genomics Platform of the Multi-omic technology center. This will be a fixed-term, 12-month position based onsite 5 days a week in Palo Alto. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. In this role, you will report to the Associate Director of the Genomics Platform and play a key role in delivering high-quality sequencing data for institute-scale initiatives and investigator-led research. You will work closely with scientists across Arc to coordinate sequencing submissions, perform sequencing operations, ensure rigorous quality control, and help maintain efficient, reliable production workflows across multiple next-generation sequencing platforms. This is primarily a production sequencing operations role. Success in this role is measured by delivering high-quality sequencing data through reliable execution, strong operational discipline, and excellent collaboration with sample submitters.

Requirements

BS/MS degree in genomics, molecular biology, biochemistry, biology or related field
BS with 4+ years (or MS with 2+ years) of relevant post-graduate experience, preferably in the biotechnology/pharmaceutical industry in a clinical diagnostics, biotech or research lab setting.
Firm understanding of fundamental molecular biology concepts.
Hands-on experience with basic molecular biology and QC techniques including nucleic acid extraction, purification and quantification (using Qubit and Bioanalyzer/ Tapestation), PCR/RT-PCR, qPCR.
Expertise in NGS technologies and workflows, including library preparation, library quality assessment, pooling strategies, sequencing operations, and Illumina instrumentation.
Strong interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to collaborate with diverse scientific users and deliver excellent customer support in a shared platform setting.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Strong organizational and analytical skills, with high attention to detail in executing standardized workflows across multiple concurrent projects.
Drive for excellence and a self-starter.
Demonstrated problem solving skills and ability to troubleshoot technical issues
Ability to work with minimal to moderate supervision in a dynamic environment and under tight deadlines.

Nice To Haves

Experience with automation platforms and high-throughput molecular workflows is a plus.
Experience with single-cell RNA-sequencing using the 10x Genomics or other platform is a plus.
Experience with processing mammalian cells and tissues is a plus.

Responsibilities

Perform NGS library QC, pooling, and sequencing operations for bulk and single-cell workflows across multiple platforms (Illumina, Ultima Genomics).
Partner with investigators and Technology Centers to coordinate sequencing projects, review submissions, and guide users on workflows, requirements, and troubleshooting.
Utilize and help improve laboratory information management systems (LIMS/ELN) for sample tracking and sequencing operations.
Carry out continuous process improvement for data generation workflows and procedures.
Maintain sequencing schedules, sample tracking records, and SOPs to support reliable platform operations.
Summarize, document, and present results to stakeholders within and outside the Genomics Platform group.
Support routine lab activities, e.g. maintaining equipment, ordering / receiving supplies.
Perform other duties as assigned and contribute to a collaborative, high-quality lab culture.