Senior Research Associate

Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at Astellas.com.

We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact.

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.

• →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.

• 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.

• 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.

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

• 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.

$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.)