Research Associate II

Company Description

LGC Clinical Diagnostics Business Unit is comprised of our operating entities including LGC Clinical Diagnostics, Inc. (f/k/a Maine Standards Company & SeraCare Life Sciences), Technopath Clinical Diagnostics, and the Native Antigen Company. Our 400+ employees operate FDA-registered and ISO 13485-accredited facilities in Maine (USA), Massachusetts (USA), Maryland (USA), Tipperary (Ireland), and an ISO 9001-accredited facility in Oxford, UK. LGC Clinical Diagnostics is owned by LGC Group, a UK-headquartered life sciences measurement and testing business with >$510m of annual revenue and >3,500 employees globally.

SeraCare Life Sciences, Gaithersburg Inc. is a manufacturer and leading partner to global in vitro diagnostics manufacturers and clinical laboratories. They provide quality control materials for infectious disease testing through their ACCURUN® reagents as well as in the fast growing clinical next-generation sequencing (NGS) market, which it addresses through its Seraseq® brand of products for oncology, NIPT and inherited disease testing.

Job Description

Job Purpose: Advance LGC Clinical Diagnostics purpose of understanding disease by supporting the research and development of new precision diagnostic products. Support includes independently performing routine and non-routine applications of cellular/molecular genetic technology to quantitate and manipulate genetic material.

Key Responsibilities

• Manufacture intermediate level stock products using batch records and standard operating procedures.
• Perform general molecular techniques such as plasmid purification, gel-electrophoresis, RNA transcription, and bacterial culturing.
• Perform nucleic acid analysis (RNA/DNA integrity analysis, real time qPCR, digital PCR) and analyze results.
• Organize projects and data using Excel, Word, PowerPoint and a document control system.
• Work with supervisor to plan and execute new projects as assigned according to the timelines and ensure documentation meets GLP/GMP requirements.
• Record test results and data records, seek appropriate approval and file according to established procedures.
• Maintain, calibrate and operate equipment according to established protocols. Monitor equipment for appropriate operation within set parameters and refer abnormal results to lab management.
• Work in collaboration with the Quality Assurance group to fulfil Quality Management Goals and proactively address problems under an ISO quality system.
• Plan for raw material requirements by maintaining appropriate inventory of reagents and ordering reagents as needed through an ERP system (SAP).
• Maintain a clean and safe lab environment.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• A Bachelor's degree with at least 2 years of industry experience
• Experience in Molecular Biology techniques such as DNA/RNA Purification and quantitation, PCR (Endpoint or Real time PCR), DNA/RNA electrophoresis.
• Basic cell culture and aseptic techniques
• Experience in writing and executing protocols
• Software experience: Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
• Analytic skills: Perform preliminary data interpretation/analysis. Follow SOPs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Biochemistry or Molecular Biology or a related field

Knowledge, Experience and Technical Skills

• Critical thinker who can analyze date and respond quickly to manage projects.
• Ability to manage and complete projects as assigned.
• Capability of working with multiple departments to achieve project related goals.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong organizational skills
• Engaged and committed team professional who is committed for product integrity.
• Passion for continuous improvement.
• Can work on diverse projects and is willing to reprioritize them as needed
• Collaborates effectively with others
• Independent thinker and self-learner

Additional Information

What we offer (US based-employees):

• Competitive compensation with strong bonus program
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits for employees and dependents
• FSA/HSA Pre-tax savings plans for health care, childcare, and elder care
• Deductible Buffer Insurance and Critical Illness Insurance
• Great gym onsite!
• 401(k) retirement plan with matching employer contribution
• Company-paid short- and long- term disability, life insurance, and employee assistance program
• Flexible work options
• Pet Insurance for our furry friends
• Enhanced Parental leave of 8 additional weeks
• PTO that begins immediately
• Town Hall monthly meeting onsite/virtual, Cheer program where employees are recognized for outstanding work, Companywide social events, frequent catered lunches and much more!

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. 

We participate in E-Verify.

LGC strongly believes that every job applicant and employee should be valued for their individual talents regardless of age, disability, race, color, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion, or belief. Short listing, interviewing and selection will always be carried out without regard to gender, sexual orientation, marital status, color, race, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, age, or trade union membership.

Pay Transparency Statement (Maryland Applicants)

This pay range listed below represents entry level and high end of the anticipated salary range for the Maryland-based position.  The actual base salary will depend on several factors such as education, experience, and skills.

Starting-Minimum: $27.00/per hour
Maximum: $37.00/per hour

Entry level candidates and those who are already proficient and bring relevant experience may typically fall between $27.00 per hour and $32.00 per hour.