Research Associate III

Description:
Pay Rate $30-$36

Expectation is 100% onsite

There may sparingly be work from home days granted to write a report, but expectation is 100% onsite.

Consumables Product Development Support (PML)

Onsite Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. No OT, No weekend work

Exposure to blood assay takes blood samples, used to analyze DNA. Exposure to small microliter sized samples of DNA or blood. Low risk


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Hologic is seeking a Senior Research Associate (RA3) to support R&D product development of molecular diagnostic systems through the fabrication and testing of prototype consumables. This role is focused on hands on work in a clean environment, including inspection and assembly of plastic and mechanical components (ultrasonic and laser welding, manual assembly), and integration of biological reagents (e.g., enzymes, buffers) into consumable formats. The Senior Research Associate will execute and improve build processes, contribute to product and process optimization, and collaborate cross functionally with Assay Development, Engineering, and Manufacturing.

**Duties & Responsibilities:**

- **Prototype Consumable Build & Assembly**
- Perform hands-on assembly of prototype consumables and subassemblies in a clean/controlled environment, following written build instructions and standard operating procedures.
- Use ultrasonic and laser welding equipment to join plastic and other components; optimize basic weld parameters under guidance from Engineering.
- Perform manual assembly operations (e.g., insertion of components, bonding, fastening, sealing) using hand tools, fixtures, and semi-automated equipment.
- Inspect incoming and in-process parts using calipers, microProducts, gauges, and/or vision systems to ensure components meet specifications.
- Document build parameters, lot information, and observations accurately in lab notebooks and electronic systems.

- **Reagent Integration (Enzymes, Buffers, and Other Liquids)**
- Prepare and handle biological reagents (e.g., enzymes, buffers, controls) according to protocols and quality requirements.
- Dispense and integrate reagents into consumable cartridges or devices using manual pipetting and/or liquid-handling equipment.
- Perform stability and basic functional checks on reagent-loaded consumables in collaboration with assay development scientists.
- Contribute to optimization of reagent fill processes to support robustness, manufacturability, and assay performance.

- **Experimental Support for Product Development**
- Design and perform moderately complex build and test runs with minimal input from supervisor to support R&D and engineering studies.
- Understand experimental goals in the context of overall product development (e.g., evaluating new designs, new materials, or new assembly parameters).
- Execute experiments to:
- Assess the impact of assembly parameters (e.g., weld energy, alignment, assembly sequence) on consumable performance and reliability.
- Evaluate new or modified consumable designs for manufacturability and robustness.
- Support transfer of consumable designs from prototype to pilot/early manufacturing.
- Independently analyze build and test data; summarize results in clear, data-driven reports and presentations.

- **Formulation and Process Optimization**
- Work with assay and formulation scientists to understand reagent requirements and constraints (e.g., stability, viscosity, compatibility with materials).
- Design and execute studies to optimize the integration of reagents within the consumable (e.g., fill volumes, storage configurations, drying or sealing conditions).
- Contribute to setting and refining process parameters and in-process specifications for consumable and reagent integration steps.
- Support generation of transfer documentation for processes moving from R&D to Manufacturing.

- **Verification & Validation (V&V) Support**
- Execute build and test activities in support of V&V plans using near-final or final versions of consumables on designated instrument platforms.
- Generate, organize, and maintain documentation from build and test activities in accordance with quality and regulatory requirements.
- Support data collection for regulatory submissions and internal product claims by ensuring builds conform to defined procedures and specifications.

- **Product and Process Development**
- Participate in studies supporting finalization of consumable design, including robustness testing, design-of-experiments (DOE) on assembly parameters, and durability testing.
- Support scale-up activities, including:
- Building pilot lots for engineering and assay testing.
- Providing feedback on fixture design, tooling, and proposed manufacturing workflows.
- Collaborate with Engineering and Manufacturing to refine assembly instructions, inspection criteria, and documentation to enable smooth transfer to production.
- Assist in evaluating hardware or software changes that affect consumable use (e.g., new instrument interfaces, updated instrument scripts).

- **Cross-Functional Collaboration & Communication**
- Collaborate closely with Assay Development, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Manufacturing/Operations teams.
- Communicate build status, issues, and experimental outcomes clearly and promptly to stakeholders.
- Provide constructive feedback on design for manufacturability (DFM), usability, and robustness of consumables based on hands-on build experience.

**Qualifications:**

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required.

- **Demonstrate drive and commitment**
- Shows reliability and follow-through in completing build schedules and experimental tasks.
- Exhibits focus and determination in a hands-on technical environment; drives tasks to completion and produces high-quality, traceable experimental data.

- **Work efficiently and effectively**
- Effectively manages time and priorities in a fast-paced R&D environment; balances multiple builds and experiments.
- Works cleanly and systematically in a controlled/cleanroom environment.
- Learns from mistakes and implements corrective and preventive actions; consistently meets project timelines.

- **Team membership**
- Works effectively in multidisciplinary teams (R&D scientists, engineers, operations).
- Seeks input from teammates (e.g., on fixture use, weld setups, reagent handling) and shares practical insights from build activities.
- Shares credit and information openly, contributing to a collaborative culture.

- **Adapt and learn**
- Thrives in situations involving ambiguity, evolving designs, and changing priorities typical of early product development.
- Demonstrates resilience and composure in the face of build issues, test failures, or design changes.
- Continuously learns new equipment (e.g., welding tools, dispensing systems), processes, and documentation practices to support organizational goals.

**Education:**

- B.A. / B.S. in Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field