Research Associate

Description

We are seeking an intellectually curious and highly motivated Research Associate to join our R&D Chemistry team supporting the development of next-generation products for rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) and other applications in medical diagnostics. This entry-level role is ideal for recent college graduates with a strong foundation in chemistry and hands-on research experience in academic or laboratory settings. The Research Associate will work side-by-side on a strong R&D team of scientists and engineers to plan and execute experiments, analyze data, support product development, and contribute to innovation in infectious disease diagnostics. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain industry experience, grow scientific skills, and make a meaningful impact on products that saves lives.

Job Responsibilities:
Research and Product Development (80%)

• Performs laboratory experiments and testing activities under general supervision to support R&D Chemistry projects, including reagent preparation, wet-lab procedures, analytical characterization, and product development.
• Plans and executes experiments using a hypothesis-driven scientific approach, incorporating the full lifecycle of the scientific method—formulating questions, designing experiments, executing experimental protocols, analyzing results, and drawing conclusions.
• Analyzes experimental data using appropriate statistical and graphical methods to identify trends, assess performance, and evaluate hypotheses.
• Investigates unexpected results by applying critical thinking and collaborating with team members to troubleshoot and refine experimental approaches.
• Maintains accurate and detailed records of experimental procedures, data, and observations in laboratory notebooks and electronic data systems to ensure reproducibility and traceability.
• Assists in small-scale production and preparation of experimental materials such as sensor formulations, reagents, and test articles used in product development studies.
• Prepares concise summaries of experimental results, figures, and progress reports to facilitate internal communication and contribute to data-driven decision making.
• Presents findings and recommendations during team meetings and technical discussions to support project advancement.
• Collaborates with scientists and engineers across functional teams to support experimental design, troubleshoot issues, and contribute to scientific problem-solving.
• Adapts to changing project needs by taking on additional responsibilities, supporting ad hoc lab tasks, and contributing flexibly to team goals.

Lab Operations (20%)

• Supports day-to-day laboratory operations by ensuring cleanliness, organization, proper equipment maintenance, and compliance with laboratory safety protocols and quality system requirements.
• Coordinates inventory management by tracking laboratory supplies and initiating orders for reagents, disposables, and materials required for ongoing experiments.
• Performs safe handling and disposal of laboratory waste in compliance with environmental health and safety (EHS) guidelines and company protocols.
• Demonstrates a professional and proactive approach to lab work, including clear communication, reliability, and a continuous improvement mindset.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Materials Science, Materials Engineering, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Prior undergraduate research experience (e.g., academic independent study, capstone project, honors thesis project, lab assistant, or research assistant role

This is an entry-level position intended for recent graduates or early-career individuals who have demonstrated hands-on laboratory skills and a strong interest and aptitude for scientific research and product development.

Key Skills & Attributes:

• Strong understanding of core chemistry principles, including general chemistry, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, and organic chemistry.
• Strong scientific curiosity and problem-solving mindset with a desire to learn new techniques and grow professionally in a dynamic R&D environment.
• Hands-on laboratory experience in wet chemistry techniques, such as pipetting, titration, solution preparation, pH measurement, filtration, and sample handling.
• Excellent chemical laboratory safety and hygiene practices, including proper use of PPE, safe chemical handling, waste segregation, etc.
• Excellent attention to detail, with a commitment to high-quality documentation of procedures, observations, and results.
• High accountability with a strong capability to accurately and reliably execute experimental protocols.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills; ability to present experimental findings clearly and concisely.
• Comfortable working both independently and in cross-functional team settings.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• At a minimum, must have strong skills plotting and visualizing data in Excel, with an understanding of basic statistics (standard deviations, means, medians, %CV, histograms, etc.).
• Experience with more advanced statistical analysis software and/or programming languages for data analysis is highly valued, but not required (e.g., JMP, MATLAB, Python).
• Exposure to quality systems, regulatory standards (e.g., ISO 13485, 21 CFR 820), and design control processes is a plus, though not required.
• Ability to follow detailed protocols and adapt to evolving project needs and priorities.

The estimated salary range for this role based in California is between $81,200 – 96,000. This role is eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and individual performance per bioMerieux’s bonus program. This range may differ from ranges offered for similar positions elsewhere in the country given differences in cost of living. Actual compensation within this range is determined based on the successful candidate’s experience and will be presented in writing at the time of the offer.
In addition, bioMérieux offers a competitive Total Rewards package that may include:

• A choice of medical (including prescription), dental, and vision plans providing nationwide coverage and telemedicine options
• Company-Provided Life and Accidental Death Insurance
• Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Retirement Plan including a generous non-discretionary employer contribution and employer match.
• Adoption Assistance
• Wellness Programs
• Employee Assistance Program
• Commuter Benefits
• Various voluntary benefit offerings
• Discount programs
• Parental leaves