Associate Scientist – BioPharma Molecular

When you work as an Associate Scientist on the BioPharma Molecular team at KCAS, you get to further our mission by applying your knowledge of molecular and cell biology techniques to support the design, development, validation, and analysis of bioanalytical methods and samples. You will work with technologies such as qPCR and ddPCR and support cell-based assays within a GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) regulated laboratory environment.

Our BioPharma Molecular team provides a full range of molecular services and viral vector capabilities to support gene replacement, gene addition, gene inhibition, gene editing, and cell therapy or transplantation programs throughout drug development.

In this role, we will rely on you to:

• Demonstrate technical and scientific skills in molecular technologies, including PCR (qPCR and ddPCR) and the handling of DNA and RNA
• Perform extraction and quantification of nucleic acids from a variety of biological matrices
• Work with human blood, primary cells and tissues, and perform associated cell culture activities at the BSL-II level
• Plan and carry out assigned experiments, including method development, method validation, sample analysis, data calculation, interpretation, review, and troubleshooting
• Support the design of experiments and evaluate outcomes against current SOPs, protocols, and other applicable standards, recommending appropriate courses of action as needed
• Analyze and interpret scientific data, prepare summary tables, and review raw data for accuracy, completeness, and integrity
• Assist with the preparation and review of SOPs, study plans, and reports
• Maintain materials, equipment, and instrumentation required to support successful study execution
• Provide work instructions and technical training to more junior scientific staff as appropriate
• Maintain accurate and complete documentation in compliance with study protocols, SOPs, Good Documentation Practices (GDP), and GLP regulatory requirements
• Troubleshoot technical issues, identify potential causes, and escalate complex challenges appropriately
• Manage multiple assignments and priorities while meeting established study timelines and deadlines
• Perform all aspects of the job in a way that supports company brand and supports company mission, vision, and values

To qualify specifically for this role, you will have:

• Bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Immunology, Molecular Biology, or related scientific field with at least 4 years of experience in a scientific laboratory environment
• Hands-on experience working in a GLP-regulated laboratory environment and strong knowledge of Good Documentation Practices (GDP)
• Experience with molecular technologies, including PCR, qPCR, and/or ddPCR
• Experience handling DNA and RNA, including nucleic acid extraction and quantification
• Experience working with human blood, primary cells and/or tissues in a BSL-II laboratory environment
• Experience with assay design, method development, validation, and sample analysis
• Experience analyzing and interpreting data, preparing summary tables, and reviewing raw data
• Ability to troubleshoot technical and scientific challenges using sound critical-thinking and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet established deadlines
• Excellent verbal and written communication and organizational skills
• Self-motivated, flexible, and adaptable, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment