Senior Research Associate

Purpose & Scope

The Senior Research Associate, Cytogenomics, is responsible for executing advanced molecular workflows, with a significant focus on next-generation sequencing (NGS) applications, including bulk, single-cell, and targeted capture sequencing using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms. The role also supports workflow automation using liquid-handling systems and performs primary human cell culture using rigorous aseptic technique and established culture standards.

Role And Responsibilities

• Execute Advanced NGS Workflows: Perform bulk, single-cell, and targeted-capture sequencing workflows using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms, from sample preparation to library QC and through sequencing run completion.
• Perform Molecular Biology Methods: Execute nucleic acid extraction, quantification, quality assessment, library preparation, target enrichment, amplification, and other high-complexity molecular workflows.
• Support Workflow Development and Optimization: Evaluate, develop, optimize, and troubleshoot molecular and sequencing methods, strategies, and SOPs to improve assay performance, robustness, throughput, and reproducibility.
• Implement Laboratory Automation: Develop, execute, and maintain automated workflows using liquid handling platforms, including method programming, optimization, troubleshooting, and routine operation.
• Perform Primary Human Cell Culture: Culture, maintain, expand, and experimentally manipulate primary human cells using rigorous aseptic technique and established cell-culture standards.
• Analyze and Communicate Experimental Results: Familiarize and adhere to the organizational policy on data integrity. Review experimental and sequencing quality-control data, identify technical issues or trends, document findings, and communicate results clearly to project teams and scientific stakeholders.
• Maintain Laboratory Readiness and Documentation: Maintain accurate experimental records, follow established procedures, support instrument maintenance and laboratory organization, and contribute to the preparation and revision of protocols, methods, and technical reports.

Required Qualifications

• BS with 8+ years or MS with 4+ years of relevant experience in molecular biology, genomics, cell biology, biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Significant hands-on experience performing next-generation sequencing workflows, including sample preparation, library construction, library quality control, and sequencing run execution.
• Experience with one or more NGS applications, such as bulk DNA or RNA sequencing, single-cell sequencing, or targeted-capture sequencing.
• Hands-on experience operating Illumina sequencing platforms or comparable short-read sequencing technologies.
• Strong technical proficiency in core molecular biology methods, including nucleic acid extraction, quantification, quality assessment, amplification, and library preparation.
• Experience developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting complex molecular or sequencing workflows.
• Experience operating liquid-handling systems or other laboratory automation platforms, including automated method execution and troubleshooting.
• Hands-on experience culturing primary human cells using rigorous aseptic technique and established cell culture practices.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret experimental and quality-control data, identify technical issues, maintain accurate experimental records, and communicate findings clearly.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, with the ability to manage multiple laboratory activities and work effectively within cross-functional scientific teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with Oxford Nanopore sequencing platforms and long-read sequencing workflows.
• Experience with single-cell sequencing workflows, including cell or nuclei preparation, library construction, and sequencing quality control.
• Experience designing and executing targeted-capture or enrichment-based sequencing workflows.
• Experience programming, developing, or optimizing methods on liquid-handling platforms.
• Experience with sequencing-based assay development, technology transfer, method qualification, or validation.
• Familiarity with primary human cell culture, cell-based sample preparation, and the integration of cellular workflows with downstream molecular analyses.
• Working knowledge of sequencing data analysis, bioinformatics pipelines, or common genomic data formats and quality-control metrics.
• Experience working in a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, regulated, or quality-controlled laboratory environment.

Location and Working Environment

This position is based in Westborough, MA and will require primarily on-site work in a laboratory and office working environment.

What awaits you at Astellas?

• Global collaboration: Become part of a connected global business of like-minded life science leaders, all dedicated to improving patients' lives worldwide.
• Real-world patient impact: Contribute to transformative therapies that reach patients around the world, knowing your work makes a difference every day.
• Relentless Innovation: Join a company at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs, where you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of healthcare.
• A Culture of Growth: Chart your own course within a supportive environment that values your contributions, champions your development, and empowers you to pursue your passions.

Our Organizational Values and Behaviors

Values: Innovation, Integrity and Impact sit at the heart of what we do. Behaviors: We come together as 'One Astellas', working with courage and a sense of urgency. We are outcome focused and consistently take accountability for our personal contribution.

Salary Range

$82,880 - $118,400 (Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to skills, experience and organizational equity considerations.)

Benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off options, including Vacation and Sick time, plus national holidays including year-end shut down
• 401(k) match and annual company contribution
• Company paid life insurance
• Annual Corporate Bonus and Quarterly Sales Incentive for eligible positions
• Long Term Incentive Plan for eligible positions
• Company fleet vehicle for eligible positions
• Referral bonus program