Research Associate II, NAMkind™ Assays

Research Associate II, NAMkind™ Assays

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Junior Research Associate to support expansion of our NAMkind™ Tissue platform for drug-induced tissue injury and drug efficacy studies. The successful candidate will perform cell culture-based experiments, execute biomarker assays including ELISA, maintain high-quality laboratory documentation, and contribute to the generation of reproducible data supporting internal R&D and client-facing studies.

This role is ideal for an early-career scientist with strong tissue culture skills who is interested in applying advanced human-relevant in vitro models to drug discovery and safety assessment.

Key Responsibilities

Cell Culture & Tissue Model Support

• Maintain and culture primary mammalian cell types using aseptic technique.
• Thaw, expand, count, and prepare relevant cell populations for experimental studies.
• Assist with preparation and maintenance of multicellular cultures.
• Perform routine media exchanges, compound dosing, and sample collection according to SOPs.
• Monitor tissue morphology and culture health using microscopy and imaging systems.

Assay Execution

• Perform ELISA and other biochemical assays to evaluate tissue function and toxicity.
• Conduct viability, cytotoxicity, and functional endpoint assays.
• Prepare reagents, standards, controls, and assay plates.
• Operate plate readers and analyze assay quality metrics.

Experimental Operations

• Support execution of screening and mechanistic studies under the guidance of senior scientists.
• Maintain detailed electronic laboratory notebooks and experimental records.
• Assist with inventory management, reagent preparation, and laboratory organization.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Compile, organize, and perform basic analysis of experimental data.
• Generate figures, tables, and summaries for study reports and internal presentations.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of protocols and laboratory workflows.

Qualifications

Required

• B.S. in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biomedical Engineering, or related life science discipline.
• 1-3 years of laboratory experience in cell culture or tissue culture.
• Hands-on experience performing ELISA assays.
• Familiarity with standard laboratory instrumentation and aseptic technique.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

Preferred

• Experience working with primary cells or 3D tissue models.
• Familiarity with GraphPad Prism, Microsoft Excel, or other data analysis software.
• Experience following SOPs and Good Documentation Practices (GDP).

Key Competencies

• Excellent laboratory technique and reproducibility
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Effective written and verbal communication
• Ability to manage multiple studies simultaneously
• Commitment to data integrity and scientific rigor.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and strong team-oriented mindset.