Associate Research Scientist II

About the role

This position works out of our Madison, Wisconsin location in the Cancer Diagnostics R&D Product Development Division. The Associate Research Scientist II, with some guidance from more experienced scientists, works on projects which are moderate to complex in scope and will have the chance to work on our Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test.

Responsibilities

• Support moderate to complex R&D projects by planning and executing experiments, analyzing data, and contributing to scientific problem-solving with some guidance from senior scientists.
• Conducts late-stage product development studies, including stability testing, design verification and validation, product performance improvements, and manufacturing investigations.
• Develop and apply expertise in molecular biology techniques, including blood processing, nucleic acid extraction, qPCR, protein-based assays, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods.
• Collaborate effectively within and across functional teams in a fast-paced, milestone-driven environment to support the development and continuous improvement of early cancer detection diagnostics while maintaining high quality standards.

Essential duties

• Conduct bench level experiments within a specific product or technology area and identify problems and discrepancies.
• With some guidance, plan and analyze results of bench level experiments within a specific product or technology area.
• Operate scientific instrumentation related to performance of duties and notify appropriate personnel of any problems.
• Effectively utilize and apply methods or technologies and provide ideas for new techniques, when appropriate.
• Maintain knowledge of technological industry developments that could assist in completion of an assignment or aid in the development of new processes or procedures.
• Provide technical input and participate in decisions affecting project planning and experimental design.
• Prepare and provide information and generate data for scientific abstracts/conferences/project meetings/publications.
• Follow research plans and experimental outlines to write experimental protocols and perform laboratory experiments.
• Maintain lab notebook in a complete and consistent manner, following all legal, ISO, and QSR requirements, as well as keeping clear and complete.
• Prepare reports and documentation providing the analysis or summarization of experimental results and outcomes to supervisor, technical teams/groups, or project teams.
• Present experimental results, scientific ideas and findings, information, and updates at project or departmental meetings.
• Present clear project summaries and outcomes in written and verbal formats to supervisor and other members of the scientific team.
• Work on problems of diverse scope in which analysis of data requires evaluation of identifiable factors.
• Work on individual assignments and with project team members, as appropriate, to meet department and project objectives.
• Work within project timeframes that are established collaboratively by team members.
• Exercise discretion and independent judgement to interpret results, analyze data, and present findings in a professional and knowledgeable manner.
• Ability to train and mentor junior level research associates.
• Ability to organize, present, and convey moderate problems or issues.
• Ability to communicate clearly with supervisor and group members.
• Excellent presentation skills.
• Ability to collaborate and work effectively within team and department.
• Strong attention to detail skills.
• Ability to effectively work on several varied projects at one time, with frequent changing priorities.
• Successful in analytical, problem solving, and decision-making skills.
• Successful in technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaboration with others, and independent thought.
• Uphold company mission and values through accountability, innovation, integrity, quality, and teamwork.
• Support and comply with the company’s Quality Management System policies and procedures.
• Regular and reliable attendance.
• Ability to work nights and/or weekends, as needed.

Physical demands

• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds for approximately 5% of a typical working day.
• Ability to work on a mobile device, tablet, or in front of a computer screen and/or perform typing for approximately 50% of a typical working day.
• Ability to grasp with both hands; pinch with thumb and forefinger; turn with hand/arm; reach above shoulder height.
• Ability to comply with any applicable personal protective equipment requirements.
• Ability to use various types of laboratory equipment including microscopes, microtomes, blades, strainers, pipettes for extended periods of time.
• May perform repetitious actions using lab tools.
• Ability to use near vision to view samples at close range.
• May be exposed to hazardous materials, tissue specimens and instruments with moving parts, lasers, heating and freezing elements, and high-speed centrifugation.
• Ability and means to travel between Exact Sciences locations.
• Ability to travel 5% of working time away from work location, may include overnight/weekend travel.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Chemical/Physical/Biological Science, or related field.
• 3+ years of relevant experience.
• 2+ years of hands-on experience in molecular biology and/or biochemical techniques.
• Basic understanding of GMP, ISO, and Quality Systems.
• Demonstrated ability to apply statistical and mathematical methods in biology/genetics/genomics.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
• Demonstrated ability to perform the Essential Duties of the position with or without accommodation.

Preferred qualifications

• Foundational knowledge and hands‑on experience with molecular biology techniques, including qPCR, NGS, and/or immunoassay‑based methods, especially as applied in product development workflows.
• 4+ years of experience in a product development, clinical laboratory, or regulated biotechnology environment supporting assay development, verification/validation, or process improvement activities.
• Demonstrated ability to apply statistical and mathematical methods in biology/genetics/genomics.
• Exposure to and understanding of GMP, CLSI guidelines, LDT vs IVD, and ISO.
• Self‑motivated individual who thrives in a fast‑paced, high‑energy team environment and is eager to contribute to the advancement of diagnostic products.

Pay

The base pay for this position is $61,300.00 – $122,700.00. In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.