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Research Associate Assay Development Jobs in Austin, TX

The Product Development Sr. Research Associate will contribute to the design, execution and ... assay development who can work effectively in a fast-paced environment to ensure the highest ...

The Product Development Sr. Research Associate will contribute to the design, execution and ... assay development who can work effectively in a fast-paced environment to ensure the highest ...

Research Associate

San Marcos, TX · On-site

$4.4K - $5.0K/mo

Master's Degree in any field The Research Associate position assists the research team through ... Explore a wide range of training, development courses, certifications, and educational support ...

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Research Associate Assay Development information

See Austin, TX salary details

$16

$32

$46

How much do research associate assay development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate assay development in Austin, TX is $32.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.96 and $36.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a research associate in assay development do?

A Research Associate in Assay Development is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing laboratory assays to detect or measure biological substances. They typically work in biotechnology or pharmaceutical companies, supporting research and development projects by ensuring assays are robust, reliable, and reproducible. Their duties may include preparing samples, analyzing data, troubleshooting protocols, and collaborating with other scientists to improve experimental workflows. This role requires strong analytical skills and a background in biology, chemistry, or a related field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research associate in assay development?

To thrive as a Research Associate in Assay Development, you need a solid background in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, often with a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with laboratory techniques such as ELISA, PCR, and use of analytical instruments, along with experience using data analysis software, is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong organizational and communication skills help you excel in experimental design and collaborative scientific environments. These skills ensure reliable assay results, efficient workflow, and meaningful contributions to research and product development.

What are some typical challenges faced by a research associate in assay development, and how can they be addressed?

Research Associates in Assay Development often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting experimental variability, optimizing assay conditions, and managing tight project timelines. These issues can be addressed by maintaining meticulous documentation, collaborating closely with senior scientists and cross-functional teams, and staying current with the latest assay technologies and protocols. Seeking feedback from peers and participating in regular team meetings also helps in overcoming technical hurdles and ensuring that project goals are met efficiently.

Do I need a PhD to be a research associate assay development?

A research associate in assay development typically does not require a PhD; a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or biochemistry is often sufficient. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with assay platforms. Advanced roles or research-focused positions may prefer or require a PhD.

What are popular job titles related to Research Associate Assay Development jobs in Austin, TX?

For Research Associate Assay Development jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Associate Assay Development jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Associate Assay Development jobs in Austin, TX are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Research Associate Assay Development jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Research Associate Assay Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Associate Assay Development job openings in Austin, TX as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,090 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Senior Research Associate

Natera

Austin, TX

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Natera rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Product Development Sr. Research Associate will contribute to the design, execution and participation in experiments/tasks to support oncology product development and verification and validation (V&V) studies under design control, for next generation sequencing (NGS) assays. We are looking for a meticulous and dedicated candidate with direct laboratory experience in assay development who can work effectively in a fast-paced environment to ensure the highest quality clinical assays are developed and launched for our patients. The ideal candidate will be an enthusiastic and driven professional who is eager to learn, flexible, enjoys multi-tasking and possesses strong wet lab skills. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • With some supervision, design and execute low to moderate complexity experimental workflows, including cfDNA extraction, library preparation for next-generation sequencing (NGS) using both manual and automated platforms, employing various molecular biology and standard laboratory methods in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions
  • Assist with the design, plan and execution of experiments to support the development and V&V of oncology assays
  • Maintain a detailed and organized electronic laboratory notebooks and accurate records of lab work using a variety of software including Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, and internal databases
  • Analyze and interpret experimental data using appropriate statistical and analytical tools
  • Assist in drafting documentation including study protocols, reports, SOPs and work instructions
  • Coordinate across multiple internal teams to ensure the timely execution of the studies.
  • Adapt to handle multiple tasks and priorities, and perform other duties as assigned
  • Learn the science behind ongoing research projects while actively completing increasingly complex tasks

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry or related field with a minimum of 4 years of laboratory and/or relevant industry experience or MS with 0-2 years of relevant experience. 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Must have hands-on experience with DNA extraction from biological samples, e.g. blood, plasma, tissue and BLS1, BLS2 experience
  • Must have hands-on experience with nucleic acid techniques (purification, quantification, amplification using PCR, qPCR, Quant-IT/Qubit, BioAnalyzer or TapeStation)
  • Hands-on experience with NGS library preparation and Illumina sequencing platforms is highly preferred
  • Experience in a regulatory environment under IVD, CLIA/CAP is highly desired
  • Experience in implementing, optimizing, and troubleshooting high-throughput automated assays using liquid handling techniques
  • Knowledge of statistical methods and techniques to contribute to analytical studies is desired
  • Ability to operate independently in a fast-paced lab under minimal supervision, managing multiple tasks and priorities with minimal errors is highly desired
  • Effective communication skills, including gathering information from different teams, communicating with suppliers, writing protocols, and summarizing results in reports or presentations 
  • Excellent with Microsoft Office programs and Google Drive including Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms   
  • Ability to think creatively and analytically with strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Team player with strong interpersonal skills with an ability to build effective working relationships within functional areas

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