Research Associate III, Assay Transfer

About the role

As a Research Associate III in the Assay Transfer team, you will be responsible for leading the technical transition of specific product components from Development to Manufacturing. You will apply advanced scientific principles to ensure manufacturability, lead the preparation of complex manufacturing documents, and identify process improvements. You will operate with significant autonomy, requiring minimal supervision on routine tasks and acting as a technical resource for more junior staff.

Responsibilities

• Perform pilot reagent manufacturing, including execution and testing of pilot reagent builds.
• Represent the Assay Transfer team on cross-functional project teams, coordinating specific workstreams and ensuring timelines for transfer activities are met.
• Write and review complex manufacturing documents, validation protocols, and technical reports with a high degree of accuracy and minimal oversight.
• Assist in the design of experiments (DOE) and process characterization studies by helping define variables to be tested and contributing to experimental planning.
• Ensure strict adherence to GMP, GLP, and Design Control principles and advocate for “Quality First Time” by reviewing team members’ work.
• Provide technical mentorship and training to junior Research Associates on laboratory techniques and transfer procedures to support team development and skill enhancement.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Science and 4 years of relevant laboratory/industry experience (required).

Skills

• Strong independent thought and ability to troubleshoot complex assays.
• Proficiency in standard software (Excel, Word, or equivalent) plus emerging proficiency in statistical analysis tools (e.g., JMP or Minitab) for data interpretation.
• Strong technical writing skills; able to draft complete validation reports and standard operating procedures (SOPs) requiring only final-stage review.
• Ability to present data clearly to the broader group and lead technical discussions regarding specific project components.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes and design transfer; familiarity with Lean concepts is a plus.

Pay

Expected salary range: $69,700.00 – $129,400.00 USD annual (based on Tucson location). Actual pay determined by experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job‑related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and company performance.