Research Associate

Job Title: Research AssociateJob Description The Research Associate provides molecular analysis support to regulatory science and registration activities, with a focus on DNA extraction, PCR-based assays, and rigorous documentation under Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards. This role supports regulatory studies by generating high-quality molecular data, maintaining laboratory resources, and collaborating with greenhouse and laboratory teams to ensure timely and accurate completion of regulatory trait packages. Responsibilities Provide molecular analysis support for regulatory sciences and registration, including DNA extraction, sample weighing, control generation, master mix preparation, and PCR plate setup.Provide technical support to investigate, develop, and adapt molecular methods as needed to address molecular technology issues within the laboratory and to meet new data requirements.Document experimental protocols, methods, and results accurately and prepare data in accordance with applicable government regulatory requirements.Maintain record management practices in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), ensuring all data, logs, and documentation are complete and compliant.Participate in experiments in compliance with GLP requirements to address key scientific questions and support regulatory submissions.Evaluate technical issues related to PCR technologies and research activities, collaborate with other laboratory personnel to formulate experimental plans, and communicate and implement next steps to resolve issues.Maintain laboratory resources, including inventory, safety-related items, and equipment calibrations, to ensure the laboratory operates efficiently and safely.Adhere to Good Laboratory Practices within the laboratory, ensuring all work meets established quality and compliance standards.Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), methods, and worksheets for analytical procedures and equipment, including sample weighing, DNA extraction, reagent preparation, genomic controls, and PCR.Maintain equipment maintenance logs and perform daily routine and non-routine maintenance activities for laboratory instruments.Support regulatory studies related to regulatory trait package preparation by contributing molecular data and documentation.Coordinate required research, greenhouse, and laboratory efforts to obtain necessary materials such as plant or tissue samples, reagents, and labware for data generation.Document and prepare study records for regulatory studies, ensuring they are complete, accurate, and ready for regulatory review. Essential Skills Proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including DNA extraction, PCR, and preparation of genomic controls and master mixes.Hands-on experience with laboratory workflows such as sample weighing, reagent preparation, and PCR plate setup.Strong understanding of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and the ability to apply GLP principles to all experimental and documentation activities.Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), laboratory methods, and worksheets with high attention to detail.Experience maintaining laboratory equipment, including performing and documenting routine and non-routine maintenance and calibrations.Competence in documenting experimental protocols, methods, and results in compliance with government regulatory requirements.Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field such as biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a closely related discipline.Solid foundation in biology, molecular biology, cell culture, laboratory techniques, and biochemistry.Strong organizational and record-keeping skills to support accurate study records and regulatory documentation.Ability to collaborate effectively with other laboratory and greenhouse personnel to coordinate experiments and material needs. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience working in a regulatory or GLP-compliant laboratory environment.Familiarity with regulatory trait package preparation and supporting regulatory studies.Experience troubleshooting PCR and other molecular technologies to resolve technical issues.Comfort working across research, greenhouse, and laboratory settings to coordinate sample and material logistics.Strong written communication skills for preparing clear protocols, study records, and regulatory-ready documentation.Ability to manage multiple experiments and tasks simultaneously while maintaining high quality and compliance. Work Environment This position is based in a laboratory environment with a standard schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The role involves regular hands-on work with molecular biology equipment and materials, including DNA extraction systems, PCR instruments, and general laboratory tools. Work includes coordination with greenhouse operations to obtain biological tissues and materials needed for experiments. The environment emphasizes adherence to Good Laboratory Practices, Standard Operating Procedures, and safety protocols, with routine equipment maintenance and calibrations forming part of daily activities. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Johnston, IA. Pay And Benefits The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $30.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Johnston,IA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Aug 14, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.