Sr. Research Associate

At Personalis, we are transforming the active management of cancer through breakthrough personalized testing. We aim to drive a new paradigm for cancer management, guiding care from biopsy through the life of the patient. Our highly sensitive assays combine tumor-and-normal profiling with proprietary algorithms to deliver advanced insights even as cancer evolves over time. Our products are designed to detect minimal residual disease (MRD) and recurrence at the earliest timepoints, enable selection of targeted therapies based on ultra-comprehensive genomic profiling, and enhance biomarker strategy for drug development. Personalis is based in Fremont, California.

Summary:

You will work with a world-class, dynamic team of scientists, software engineers, assay developers, product managers, and clinicians applying our cutting-edge cancer and immuno-oncology solutions to plan, execute, analyze, and interpret impactful collaborative R&D projects. You will provide direct hands-on operation of next generation sequencing equipment and create sequencing libraries from real-world samples to develop and validate novel products. In addition, you will play a key role in lab operations management. Your work will contribute to a new generation of genomics-based precision medicine products in immuno-oncology and cancer clinical trials, diagnostics, and therapeutics being used by pharma, biotech, hospitals and clinicians.

Responsibilities: 

• Work closely with research scientists on diverse assay development projects, where you'll actively contribute to breakthrough research.
• Ensure seamless sample tracking across all stages, from collection to analysis, and maintain comprehensive records, enhancing data integrity and reproducibility.
• Develop valuable skills in DNA/RNA purification, library preparation, and next-generation sequencing, gaining exposure to cutting-edge laboratory techniques.
• Support validation studies and assist with processing collaboration samples, building skills essential for advancing in laboratory R&D.
• Provide first-hand feedback on new protocols, helping shape procedures and contributing to continuous improvement.
• Participate in team meetings, presenting your findings and collaborating with scientists to drive shared project goals.
• Play a key role in lab operations, managing inventory, safety protocols, space planning, equipment maintenance, purchasing, and resource coordination with other teams.
• Train new users on essential lab equipment, developing leadership skills that will support your professional growth.

Requirements:

• BS in a biological discipline with a minimum of 4  years of work experience or MS with 2 years of work experience in the life science industry.
• Must have solid working knowledge of techniques for molecular biology and experience with next generation sequencing.
• Experience with RNA/DNA extraction from blood and tissue is advantageous.
• Prior experience with liquid biopsy 
• Prior lab management experience is a plus
• Excellent organization and communication skills
• Strong desire to learn and work in a demanding, high-energy, hands-on environment.

The hiring range for this position is $90,000 to $115,000 per year, which may factor in various geographic regions. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. Our full-time regular positions also include an annual performance-based bonus (or a sales incentive plan) and long-term incentive units (equity) provided as part of our compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

Personalis is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the full inclusion of all individuals. As part of this commitment, Personalis will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodations. If you need an accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please let your recruiter know, if/when they contacts you.

Personalis is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabilities. Personalis offers a competitive compensation package and benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) match, ESPP, tuition reimbursement, sick/vacation time, commuter benefits/ EV charging stations, onsite gym, and wellness benefits. (For US only, benefits in other countries may vary.) 

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