Research Protocol Technician

Key details

On-site in Cambridge, MA (Kendall Square)
Part-time: 4 hours/day Monday–Friday, either 8:45 AM–12:45 PM or 1:15 PM–5:15 PM
Temporary, 8-week fixed term: October 1 – November 25
Salary: $26.25/hour plus a $230–$2,400 bonus

About Active Site

Active Site is a research nonprofit studying the intersection of AI and biology. We collect real-world data to measure how AI augments human performance in biological experimentation, using our findings to advance the science of capability assessments. This position is part of a project to observe how individuals with minimal biology experience teach themselves foundational cell and molecular biology techniques; the resulting data will inform how new technologies like AI accelerate biological research.

About the Role

We are seeking Research Protocol Technicians to work independently on cell and molecular biology projects.

Core Tasks

• Work in BSL-1 and BSL-2 labs performing DNA assembly (molecular cloning)
• Perform mammalian cell culture (growing human cells)
• Conduct mammalian cell transfection (inserting DNA into cells)

AI Component

You will work with or without an AI for the entire project duration; in both cases you will have access to standard internet search.

Work Environment

• Work completely independently; no technical mentorship or assistance provided by Active Site staff
• Provided: desk, lab bench, laptop, phone, and all required lab equipment, resources, and materials
• Work alongside approximately 40 other researchers

Requirements

• Experience Limit: Entry-level role for individuals with limited prior biology laboratory experience; candidates must not be currently practicing biological laboratory research
• Educational Background: Currently enrolled in or hold a bachelor’s degree in any domain (non-biological STEM, biology, or humanities/social sciences). Also welcome: master’s students, PhD students, and advanced-degree holders in all non-STEM fields and in all STEM fields except biology
• Work Authorization: Open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and individuals currently authorized to work in the U.S.; Active Site Research, Inc. is an E-Verify employer

Logistics & Policies

• Commute: 11-minute walk from Lechmere Station, 10-minute walk from Kendall Station, 8-minute walk from First St Garage; no parking or travel assistance provided
• Flexibility & Remote Work: No flexible hours or hybrid/remote work accommodated
• Absences: Make-up days available for illness; vacations exceeding 3 days during the 8-week term cannot be accommodated
• Concurrent Commitments: May hold other jobs or classes as long as they do not involve hands-on wet-lab experience and do not conflict with scheduled hours
• Future Employment: Temporary role; no full-time hiring after the position ends
• Personal Device Use: Not allowed while working
• Holidays: Office closed October 12 and November 11

Hiring Process

• Deadline: September 10, 2026
• Step 1: Submit application
• Step 2: 1-hour in-person, onsite interview
• Step 3: Offer

Applications reviewed on a rolling basis; early application recommended.