Full Time

Senior Research Asssociate

Dexian
Full-time
Manufacturing
Boston, MA
$85,000 - $125,000* / year (about $41–$60 an hour)

Job Description

Job Title: Senior Research Associate
Location: Boston, MA
Pay Range: $44 - $46/hr on W2
Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite
Employment Type: Contract
Duration: 1 year
Position Overview
We are seeking a skilled Senior Research Associate to join a molecular biology and analytical development team. This individual will lead hands-on single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) sample processing and library preparation to support clinical research programs.
The ideal candidate will have practical experience with single-cell genomics workflows, particularly 10x Genomics Chromium, and the ability to independently execute experiments, troubleshoot technical challenges, optimize protocols, and collaborate with cross-functional scientific teams.
Key Responsibilities
  • Plan, execute, document, and troubleshoot single-cell RNA sequencing experiments using established genomics platforms.
  • Perform cell and tissue dissociation, cell counting, viability assessment, enrichment, cryopreservation, and preparation of single-cell suspensions from primary cells, blood-derived samples, cultured cells, and tissues.
  • Execute single-cell partitioning, GEM generation, barcoding, cDNA synthesis, amplification, and NGS library preparation using platforms such as 10x Genomics Chromium.
  • Prepare libraries for gene expression and multiomic applications, including CITE-seq, immune profiling, chromatin accessibility, and spatial transcriptomics.
  • Perform library quality control using instruments such as Bioanalyzer, TapeStation, Fragment Analyzer, Qubit, and qPCR.
  • Prepare sequencing-ready libraries, coordinate sequencing submissions, and maintain accurate sample metadata and experimental records.
  • Collaborate with scientists and bioinformaticians on experimental design, sample handling, sequencing depth, multiplexing strategies, and appropriate controls.
  • Troubleshoot assay failures, conduct root-cause investigations, and optimize protocols to improve sample quality, reproducibility, and efficiency.
  • Contribute to SOP development, assay qualification, reagent management, instrument maintenance, and laboratory readiness.
  • Communicate experimental results and technical recommendations while providing guidance to junior team members as appropriate.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Genomics, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline with 5+ years of relevant experience; OR Master's degree with 2+ years of relevant experience.
  • Hands-on experience with Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) library preparation, preferably single-cell RNA sequencing.
  • Practical experience with 10x Genomics Chromium or comparable single-cell sequencing platforms.
  • Strong understanding of RNA handling, molecular biology techniques, and single-cell sample preparation.
  • Experience working with primary cells and/or tissue samples, including cell viability assessment and preparation of high-quality cell suspensions.
  • Proficiency in library quality control, experimental troubleshooting, and laboratory documentation.
  • Ability to independently manage multiple experiments in a fast-paced research environment.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with multiomic single-cell applications such as CITE-seq, scATAC-seq, immune repertoire profiling, cell hashing, or feature barcoding.
  • Familiarity with spatial transcriptomics and downstream sequencing quality metrics.
  • Experience with laboratory automation or liquid-handling platforms.
  • Knowledge of GxP, regulated documentation practices, biomarker research, or translational research environments.
  • Experience developing SOPs, optimizing workflows, and mentoring junior team members.
Work Environment
  • Fully onsite laboratory position in Boston, Massachusetts.
  • Requires regular hands-on work with biological specimens, molecular biology reagents, and laboratory instrumentation.
  • Occasional flexibility may be required to support time-sensitive sample processing and experimental schedules.
What Makes This Opportunity Appealing
  • Work with advanced single-cell sequencing technologies.
  • Contribute to clinical research and molecular biology development programs.
  • Participate in experimental design, protocol optimization, and workflow improvements.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary scientific teams and expand expertise in emerging genomics technologies

Dexian stands at the forefront of Talent + Technology solutions with a presence spanning more than 70 locations worldwide and a team exceeding 10,000 professionals. As one of the largest technology and professional staffing companies and one of the largest minority-owned staffing companies in the United States, Dexian combines over 30 years of industry expertise with cutting-edge technologies to deliver comprehensive global services and support.  
 
Dexian connects the right talent and the right technology with the right organizations to deliver trajectory-changing results that help everyone achieve their ambitions and goals. To learn more, please visit https://dexian.com/.

Dexian is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.

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