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Scientist / Molecular Biology

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$38.50 - $48.25/hr

Scientist / Molecular Biology Duration: 24 months contract, extendable up to 48 months Location: Cambridge, MA Note: The client has the right-to-hire you as a permanent employee at any time during or ...

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Molecular Biology information

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$11K

$80.7K

$103.5K

How much do molecular biology jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for molecular biology in the United States is $80,687.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is molecular biology?

Molecular biology is a branch of science that focuses on the study of biological molecules and the processes by which they interact within living cells. It primarily deals with understanding the structure, function, and regulation of molecules such as DNA, RNA, and proteins. Molecular biologists use a variety of laboratory techniques to analyze how these molecules control cellular activities, genetic inheritance, and the expression of traits. This field plays an essential role in biotechnology, medicine, genetics, and many areas of scientific research.

What are molecular biology jobs?

There are many jobs in molecular biology, including research assistants, laboratory scientists, clinical specialists, and molecular biologists. Many of the jobs have similar duties, such as collecting samples, running complex tests to study chemistry, biology, and cell physiology, and writing reports demonstrating your findings. Researchers and academics publish papers and write grants for funding future experiments. Molecular biology majors can find jobs in many industries, including medicine, pharmaceuticals, higher education, and plant and agricultural sciences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a molecular biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Molecular Biologist, you need a strong background in molecular genetics, biochemistry, and cell biology, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a life science field. Proficiency in laboratory techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, and familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and data analysis software is essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for designing experiments, analyzing results, and collaborating with research teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing reliable scientific data, advancing research goals, and ensuring laboratory safety and compliance.

What are some of the common challenges faced by molecular biologists in a research lab setting?

Molecular biologists in research labs often face challenges such as troubleshooting experimental protocols, maintaining the integrity of sensitive samples, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies. Balancing multiple ongoing experiments and managing time efficiently can also be demanding, especially when working within tight deadlines for publications or grant submissions. Additionally, effective collaboration with interdisciplinary teams—such as bioinformaticians and chemists—is essential, as projects frequently require diverse expertise to interpret complex data and achieve research goals.

What is the difference between Molecular Biology vs Microbiologist?

AspectMolecular BiologyMicrobiologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Molecular Biology, Genetics, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology, Biology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research institutions, biotech companiesLaboratories, healthcare settings, environmental agencies
Industry UsageResearch, biotech, pharmaceuticalsHealthcare, environmental, food safety
Common Search/ComparisonFocuses on genetic and molecular techniquesFocuses on microorganisms and their impact

While both Molecular Biologists and Microbiologists work in laboratory settings and require similar educational backgrounds, Molecular Biology primarily focuses on genetic material and molecular techniques, whereas Microbiologists study microorganisms and their effects. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on their interests and skills.

Do molecular biologists make good money?

Molecular biologists typically earn a median salary that varies by experience, education, and location, with many positions offering competitive pay in research, healthcare, and biotech industries. Entry-level roles may start lower, but advanced positions or those with specialized skills and advanced degrees can lead to higher salaries. Overall, the field offers solid earning potential for qualified professionals.

Is molecular biology a stressful job?

Molecular biology can be a demanding field due to the need for precision, problem-solving, and often tight deadlines in research or laboratory settings. The job may involve long hours, repetitive experiments, and handling hazardous materials, which can contribute to stress levels. However, work environment and individual coping skills influence overall stress.
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What states have the most Molecular Biology jobs?

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Molecular Biology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Molecular Biology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 35% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,687 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Laboratory Scientist - Molecular Biology / Antibody Discovery

Pharmaceutical Company

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Other

Posted yesterday

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Job description

Laboratory Scientist – Molecular Biology / Antibody Discovery

Location: Cambridge, MA (Onsite)

Duration: Contract on W2

Experience: 0–2+ years

Industry: Biotechnology / Pharmaceutical


About the Role

We are seeking an early-career Laboratory Scientist to support Biomedicine Design and therapeutic antibody discovery. This is a hands-on laboratory position focused on molecular biology workflows used to generate, characterize, and analyze biological materials supporting antibody discovery programs.

The ideal candidate will have strong foundational experience in DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, molecular cloning, gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid purification, and NGS library preparation, along with excellent pipetting, documentation, and troubleshooting skills.


Key Responsibilities

  • Perform routine and advanced molecular biology techniques supporting therapeutic antibody discovery.
  • Perform DNA/RNA isolation, reverse transcription, PCR, and molecular cloning workflows.
  • Execute restriction digests, agarose gel electrophoresis, gel purification, and nucleic acid cleanup.
  • Perform magnetic bead/SPRI-based purification and related nucleic acid processing.
  • Prepare and QC NGS libraries and support sequencing workflows.
  • Operate automated liquid-handling systems and support high-throughput laboratory workflows.
  • Follow established SOPs while maintaining accurate and detailed experimental documentation.
  • Troubleshoot experimental workflows and identify opportunities for process improvement.
  • Maintain reagents, laboratory supplies, and appropriate inventory levels.
  • Prioritize multiple laboratory tasks while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with scientists supporting antibody discovery programs.
  • Support automation, workflow optimization, and cross-training within the laboratory.


Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
  • 0–2+ years of relevant laboratory experience.
  • Hands-on experience with:
  • PCR / molecular biology workflows
  • DNA and/or RNA extraction
  • Agarose gel electrophoresis
  • Nucleic acid purification using columns and/or magnetic beads
  • Molecular cloning
  • Primer design
  • Restriction digestion and/or Gibson assembly
  • NanoDrop and/or Qubit
  • Strong pipetting skills and attention to experimental detail.
  • Ability to follow SOPs and maintain accurate laboratory documentation.
  • Strong troubleshooting, organization, and task-prioritization skills.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in a relevant scientific discipline.
  • Experience with NGS library preparation and QC.
  • Experience with Hamilton, Biomek, Opentrons, or other automated liquid-handling platforms.
  • Experience supporting antibody discovery or biologics research.
  • Exposure to B-cell biology, immunology, phage display, yeast display, or related antibody-library technologies.
  • Experience with sequencing or molecular biology data analysis.
  • Experience with experimental design and laboratory process improvement.
  • Familiarity with Python or other computational/data-analysis tools.


Why This Opportunity?

This is a strong opportunity for a hands-on molecular biology scientist looking to work at the intersection of molecular biology, NGS, automation, and therapeutic antibody discovery.

If you have experience with PCR, cloning, DNA/RNA extraction, NGS, or automated laboratory workflows and want to apply those skills in a drug-discovery environment, we'd like to hear from you.

Apply