Research Associate II

About Abbott

Abbott Rapid Diagnostics is part of Abbott’s Diagnostics family of businesses, bringing together exceptional teams of experts and industry-leading technologies to support diagnostic testing, which provides essential information for the treatment and management of diseases and other conditions.

The Opportunity

Executes preclinical scientific research or development in collaboration with others for projects in the field of Molecular Biology.  Supports the design, optimization, characterization, troubleshooting and validation of ultra-rapid multiplexed PCR assays for use in decentralized settings, including integration with upstream sample preparation technologies.

What You'll Do

• Able to conduct independent research with limited guidance on moderately complex problems involving nucleic acid extraction and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).   Expected to adequately differentiate/explain their research/experiments. Regularly performs technical experiments, studies and assesses outcomes, becoming more technically proficient

• With minimal guidance, exercises technical discretion in the design, execution and interpretation of experiments that contribute to Multiplex-PCR assay development projects. Demonstrates ability to conduct investigations for projects of moderate complexity; seeks guidance for more advance projects; volume of work continues to expand

• With limited guidance, performs scientific work and a variety of laboratory procedures requiring application of standard techniques, procedures, methods and criteria in carrying out a sequence of related scientific tasks, e.g. qPCR, RT-PCR, dPCR, rapid PCR, multiplexing PCR, nested PCR

• Perform research related to improving and expanding core technology capabilities; conducts experiments to optimize sample preparation and PCR performance. Optimizes detection approaches coupled to the assay core technology; Analyze experimental results and provide written reports.

• Is expected to detect problems independently in using standardization procedures because of the condition of the sample, difficulties with the equipment, etc. proposes and implements solutions to less complex problems as experienced is gained able to propose and solve more moderately complex problems independently for Multiplex-PCR trouble shooting.

• Participates in routine maintenance and lab safety.

• Is able to prepare technical reports; experimental documentation; Able to independently document scientific data/experiments and related Quality systems; requires critical thinking and judgement. With less guidance develops protocols and writes reports, even though editing may be required, and effectively prepares summaries and presents data and conclusions to peers and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors Degree (± 16 years): B.S in biological or physical sciences, or mathematics

• Minimum 2 years: At least 2+ years of industry/diagnostic experience 

• Competent ability in mathematics and computer literacy

• Good organizational skills

• Solid problem solving skills and improves with greater experience.

• Good knowledge of science and the ability to apply basic principles and techniques

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree in molecular biology or similar discipline

• Minimum of 2 years of experience developing rapid, multiplexed PCR assays for in vitro diagnostic use in decentralized settings

• Proficiency in analyzing qPCR data using Excel and JMP

• Familiarity with liquid handling automation systems

WHAT WE OFFER

At Abbott, you can have a good job that can grow into a great career. We offer:

• A fast-paced work environment where your safety is our priority

• Training and career development, with onboarding programs for new employees and tuition assistance

• Financial security through competitive compensation, incentives, and retirement plans

• Health care and well-being programs including medical, dental, vision, wellness, and occupational health programs

• Paid time off

• 401(k) retirement savings with a generous company match

• The stability of a company with a record of strong financial performance and a history of being actively involved in local communities

Learn more about our benefits that add real value to your life to help you live fully:  http://www.abbottbenefits.com/pages/candidate.aspx

Follow your career aspirations to Abbott for diverse opportunities with a company that provides the growth and strength to build your future. Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to employee diversity.

Connect with us at www.abbott.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Abbott, and on Twitter @AbbottNews and @AbbottGlobal.