Research Associate I

This position is based in Irvine, California and requires the employee to be located within commuting distance of the office.

About the role

You will execute laboratory experiments in support of sustaining and product-support activities, following established protocols under the guidance of senior scientists. Responsibilities include preparing pilots, operating standard lab equipment, documenting results in real time, and ensuring accuracy and compliance with quality standards. You will analyze and compile data, flag anomalies, collaborate with team members to troubleshoot issues, maintain detailed lab notebooks, and contribute to improving routine processes while supporting multiple ongoing projects of limited scope and complexity.

Impact

• Drive execution of sustaining and product-support work by delivering reliable, high-quality experimental data that enables timely technical decisions.
• Increase team efficiency by taking ownership of routine lab work, freeing scientists to focus on complex problem solving and risk mitigation.
• Ensure data integrity and compliance through thorough documentation, accurate record-keeping, and adherence to quality standards.
• Identify and escalate experimental issues early, supporting faster troubleshooting and reducing downstream delays.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of lab processes and workflows, enhancing reproducibility and overall team throughput.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, immunology, cell biology, chemistry, or related life science field.
• 0–2 years of laboratory or research experience with hands-on exposure to basic experimental techniques.
• Working knowledge of experimental design and ability to follow established protocols with strong attention to detail.
• Proficiency with standard lab equipment and basic data analysis tools (e.g., Excel), with familiarity in using AI-enabled tools for data organization, pattern recognition, and workflow efficiency.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and communication skills with the ability to work effectively under supervision and collaborate within a team.

Benefits

Bio-Rad offers a comprehensive Total Rewards Program that includes:

• Competitive medical plans for you and your family, free HSA funds, and a new fertility offering with stipend.
• Group life and disability insurance, paid parental leave, 401k plus profit sharing, and an employee stock purchase program.
• A new upgraded and streamlined mental health platform, extensive learning and development opportunities, and education benefits.
• Student debt relief program, pet insurance, wellness challenges and support, and paid time off.
• Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and more.

Pay

The estimated base salary range for this position is $70,310 - $77,400 at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be based on geographic location, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other job-related factors. This position is also eligible for a variable annual bonus dependent on individual and company performance.

About the company

For 70 years, Bio-Rad has focused on advancing the discovery process and transforming the fields of science and healthcare. As one of the top five life science companies, we are a global leader in developing, manufacturing, and marketing high-quality research and clinical diagnostic products. Bio-Rad offers a unique employee experience with collaborative teams that span the globe, supported by leadership to build your career and empowered to drive impactful change.