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Research Associate Assay Development Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Research Associate

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$59.10K - $87.90K/yr

... and assay development projects with close supervision. This is a laboratory-based position ... research and/or development objectives focused on leading-edge biomarker measurements and ...

Research Associate

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$59.10K - $87.90K/yr

... and assay development projects with close supervision. This is a laboratory-based position ... research and/or development objectives focused on leading-edge biomarker measurements and ...

Research Associate

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$59.10K - $87.90K/yr

... and assay development projects with close supervision. This is a laboratory-based position ... research and/or development objectives focused on leading-edge biomarker measurements and ...

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Research Associate Assay Development information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$16

$33

$48

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

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate assay development in Silver Spring, MD is $33.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.07 and $38.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research Associate in Assay Development, and why are they important?

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.

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 popular job titles related to Research Associate Assay Development jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Research Associate Assay Development jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Associate Assay Development jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Research Associate Assay Development jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Research Associate Assay Development jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Research Associate Assay Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Associate Assay Development job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 84% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,972 per year, or $33.6 per hour.
Research Associate II, Enhanced Lung

Research Associate II, Enhanced Lung

United Therapeutics Corporation

Silver Spring, MD • On-site

$68.50K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

California, US residents click here.
The job details are as follows:
Who We Are
We are the first publicly-traded biotech or pharmaceutical company to take the form of a public benefit corporation. Our public benefit purpose is to provide a brighter future for patients through the development of novel pharmaceutical therapies; and technologies that expand the availability of transplantable organs.
United Therapeutics (Nasdaq: UTHR) seeks to travel down the corridors of indifference to develop treatments for rare, deadly diseases. We were founded in 1996 by a family seeking a cure for their daughter's pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Today, we have six FDA-approved therapies that treat PAH, pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD) and neuroblastoma, a rare pediatric cancer. Our near-term pipeline seeks to develop additional therapies for PAH and pulmonary fibrosis (PF).
The cure for end-stage life-threatening diseases like PAH, PH-ILD, PF, and many others is an organ transplant, but only a small percentage of donated organs are available to address the vast need. For this reason, we are working to create manufactured organs to address the shortage of kidneys, hearts, lungs, and livers available for transplant. We believe an unlimited supply of tolerable, transplantable organs will eliminate the transplant waiting list and cure end-stage organ diseases for which transplant is not currently an option.
The Enhanced Lung Program focuses on developing novel technologies to enhance donor lung performance and improve transplant outcomes. Our scientists work at the intersection of organ perfusion, gene therapy, and bioengineering to modify and optimize lungs outside the body prior to transplantation.
Who You Are
This is where strong fundamentals turn into real impact. As a Research Associate II on our Enhanced Lung team, you'll be hands-on supporting gene modification studies that push engineered lungs closer to clinical reality. You'll work directly with lung tissue, EVLP systems, and core molecular assays-contributing data that matters and learning how translational science actually happens. This role is ideal for someone who's eager to grow, takes pride in doing things the right way, and wants their daily lab work to connect to something bigger. If you're motivated by purpose, curious by nature, and excited to build your career at the bench on meaningful science, you'll feel right at home here.
The Research Associate II will provide hands-on laboratory support for gene modification studies in lung tissue and EVLP systems. This individual will help execute EVLP, molecular assays, support vector preparation and characterization, and assist with preclinical studies.
  • Assist with lung tissue processing and ex vivo perfusion experiments
  • Perform routine molecular and cell biology assays
  • Support analytical assay development and validation
  • Contribute to data analysis and presentation
  • Perform ELISA assays and other cell-based assays
  • Make technical or scientific observations in-process, with some oversight or consultation with manager or other scientists
  • Record all laboratory data in the in-house data management system(s)
  • Prepare human and non-human organs, tissues, and cells for experimentation
  • Follow prescribed laboratory methods and protocols
  • All other duties as required

Minimum Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree in molecular biology, cell biology, biomedical engineering, or related field
  • 2+ years of related pharma/biotech industry experience
  • Good written and verbal communication skills
  • Tissue handling and dissection
  • Highly self-motivated
  • Aseptic technique
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's Degree in molecular biology, cell biology, biomedical engineering, or related field
  • Experience with viral vectors, cell culture, or gene editing tools (CRISPR, siRNA, mRNA)
  • Strong organizational and documentation skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team
  • The ability to work independently
  • Ability to work a flexible work week; inclusive of evenings and/or weekends

The salary range for this position is $68,500- $95,000 per year and reflects our good-faith estimate of the compensation for this role at the time of posting. An employee's position within the salary range will be based on factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skills, geographic location, and business needs, as well as other factors permitted by law at the time of posting. This range may be modified in the future based on company and market factors.
Job Location
This role is based at our Silver Spring, MD location.
Eligible employees may participate in the Company's comprehensive benefits suite of programs, including medical / dental / vision / prescription coverage, employee wellness resources, savings plans (401k and ESPP), paid time off & paid parental leave benefits, disability benefits, and more. For additional information on Company benefits, please visit https://www.unither.com/careers/benefits-and-amenities
United Therapeutics Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.