Posted 21 August, 2026

Job Id: 630314

Research Associate I


Location: Foster City, CA
Category: Scientific
Salary: Apply for details
Country: United States
Employment: Contract
Worksite: On-Site
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Job Description

About the Role
Seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to join the Flow Cytometry Core within the Research organization. This individual will play an important role in supporting the daily operations of a high-performing core laboratory that serves the companies Oncology, Inflammation, and Virology discovery programs. The successful candidate will help maintain laboratory operations, ensure instrument readiness, support laboratory users, and contribute to a collaborative environment focused on scientific excellence. While prior flow cytometry experience is desirable, comprehensive training will be provided to develop and expand the successful candidate’s technical expertise.
This is a temporary position designed to support ongoing laboratory activities and operational excellence within the Flow Cytometry Core.

Key Responsibilities
* Perform routine instrument calibration, quality control, preventative maintenance, and troubleshooting of flow cytometry equipment.
* Coordinate with field service engineers and vendors to resolve instrument issues and maintain system performance.
* Conduct daily, weekly, and monthly instrument cleaning and QC procedures.
* Support laboratory operations through inventory management, reagent ordering, stocking, and general laboratory upkeep.
* Assist with instrument scheduling, appointment coordination, and user support activities.
* Maintain accurate records of maintenance, quality control, and laboratory procedures.
* Communicate effectively with scientists, laboratory staff, vendors, and cross-functional collaborators.
* Adhere to laboratory safety requirements, standard operating procedures, and quality standards.

Required Qualifications
* Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Immunology, Cell Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
* Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
* Strong computer skills and proficiency with Windows-based systems.
* Ability to learn new software, hardware, and laboratory technologies quickly.
* Demonstrated ability to work independently while collaborating effectively in a team environment.
* Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Preferred
* Experience working in an industry laboratory, research environment, or flow cytometry core facility.
* Familiarity with flow cytometry instrumentation and laboratory operations.
* Basic knowledge of cell biology, immunology, and cell-based assays.

* Experience troubleshooting scientific instrumentation and applying established protocols to resolve technical issues.

What We’re Looking For
We are seeking a highly collaborative and motivated individual who is eager to learn, adaptable in a fast-paced environment, and committed to providing excellent support to researchers. The ideal candidate will be resourceful, customer-focused, and passionate about maintaining a laboratory that enables high-quality scientific research.
Join us and contribute to a core facility that supports innovative research across multiple therapeutic areas while building valuable expertise in flow cytometry and laboratory operations.

Pay ranges between 30-39/hr based on experience 

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, sex, gender identity or expression, disability, age, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations. It is our policy not to discriminate against any applicant or employee, and we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful work environment across all locations in which we operate. We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to our mission and enhance our ability to serve clients globally. If you have a disability or require any reasonable accommodations during the application or interview process, please inform your recruiter or contact us directly so that we can explore the appropriate arrangements.

Fraud Alert

Candidate safety is a top priority at Planet Pharma. The industry has seen an increase in people falsely representing themselves as recruiters to gather personal information from job seekers. For your safety, do not provide sensitive data to anyone you have not spoken with thoroughly, never provide banking information during the application process and always double check the email address of the Recruiter to ensure it’s from an official Planet Pharma domain (@planet-pharma.com, @planet-pharma.co.uk, and @ppgadvisorypartners.com) and not a domain with an alternative extension like .net, .org or .jobs.

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