Research Associate 1
Company | Natera |
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Location | Austin, TX, USA |
Salary | $53400 – $66700 |
Type | Full-Time |
Degrees | Bachelor’s |
Experience Level | Entry Level/New Grad, Junior |
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or a related field
- 0-2 years of experience in a laboratory or biorepository setting, with a focus on sample management, biospecimen processing, and quality assurance
- Familiarity with biorepository software and data management tools (e.g., FreezerPro, LabArchives, LabWare, Snowflake based database, LIMS)
- Strong understanding of biological sample management, including tissue processing, cryopreservation, DNA/RNA extraction, and cell culture
- Knowledge of regulatory compliance (HIPAA, GxP, CLIA, IRB)
- Proficiency in data analysis and database management (e.g., Excel, SPSS, R)
- Excellent organizational skills with keen attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to troubleshoot technical issues and provide practical solutions
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with researchers and other staff
- Experience with laboratory equipment (e.g., freezers, liquid nitrogen tanks, centrifuges) and ensuring proper calibration and maintenance
Responsibilities
- Oversee the collection, preparation, and processing of biological samples (e.g., blood, tissue, saliva, DNA) in accordance with established protocols and best practices
- Maintain proper documentation and labeling of samples, ensuring traceability from collection to storage
- Ensure proper storage conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity) for various types of biological samples, including cryopreservation and ambient storage
- Implement inventory management procedures to track and organize samples, utilizing database systems and laboratory management software (e.g., FreezerPro, LabArchives)
- Ensure the samples are appropriately cataloged and accessible to researchers in a timely manner
- Manage and update the sample database, ensuring accuracy and compliance with sample tracking and research needs
- Assist in data analysis and reporting, including the creation of sample inventory reports and performance metrics
- Collaborate with the research team to retrieve and prepare data for research publications or grant proposals
- Monitor and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, including HIPAA, IRB guidelines, and biorepository-specific SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures)
- Implement quality control procedures to ensure sample integrity and that all processes meet accreditation standards (e.g., CAP, ISO, CLIA)
- Assist in preparing for audits and inspections, ensuring documentation and records are up to date
- Work closely with internal and external research teams to understand sample requirements, providing expert guidance on sample availability, quality, and suitable use
- Support researchers by preparing and distributing biological samples for experiments and studies
- Provide expertise in biorepository protocols, best practices for sample handling, and troubleshooting of issues related to sample collection or storage
- Assist in the design and execution of research projects involving the biorepository’s sample collection and management processes
- Contribute to scientific publications, presentations, and other research outputs, providing data and insights from biorepository-managed samples
- Proactively identify areas for process improvement in sample management and recommend strategies to enhance operational efficiency
- Stay current with advancements in biorepository management, bio sample storage technology, and related regulatory guidelines
- Mentor and train junior staff or technicians in best practices in sample handling and database management
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with biorepository software and data management tools (e.g., FreezerPro, LabArchives, LabWare, Snowflake based database, LIMS) is highly desirable
- Experience in SQL, Python is a plus
Benefits
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No information provided on Benefits.