Research Associate

Job Title: Research Associate IJob Description The Research Associate I role is an entry-level laboratory position reporting to a Scientist. With guidance, you will support the execution of experiments and data analysis using established techniques, assays, and laboratory equipment. This role offers the opportunity to build foundational laboratory, documentation, and scientific problem-solving skills while working collaboratively in a regulated research environment. Responsibilities Perform assigned laboratory experiments and tests using established techniques, assays, materials, reagents, and equipment. Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data using appropriate statistical methods or software applications. Accurately document experimental procedures, observations, and results in a clear, compliant, and accessible manner. Assist in the design and development of experimental protocols and procedures under guidance. Collaborate with cross-functional partners and stakeholders to support experimental planning, execution, and data reporting. Escalate issues, deviations, or risks as needed and assist in troubleshooting and risk mitigation efforts. Support root cause analysis activities to help identify problems and contribute to solutions. Develop familiarity with laboratory processes, technologies, and available tools. Create basic graphs, charts, and visual summaries to clearly communicate data and findings. Set project and development goals with manager guidance and contribute to action plans. Ensure all work follows applicable legal, regulatory, safety, GLP/GxP, FDA, validation, and quality requirements. Participate in self-learning activities to continuously develop technical and scientific skills. Maintain laboratory inventory, place orders, and ensure required supplies and materials are available for project needs. Essential Skills GLP awareness. Data analysis. Assay execution. Sample preparation. Reagent handling. Basic wet lab techniques relevant to the function. Experimental data collection and analysis, including use of basic statistical methods and software tools. Accurate documentation practices, including lab notebooks and data records that meet quality and compliance standards. GLP/GxP awareness, with adherence to laboratory safety, environmental, and quality requirements. Inventory management fundamentals. Additional Skills & Qualifications Basic knowledge of safe laboratory practices, environmental considerations, GLP principles, and relevant regulatory or quality standards. Ability to follow established procedures while learning and applying new laboratory techniques. Strong attention to detail with a focus on accuracy and data integrity. Clear and concise written and verbal communication skills. Demonstrated active listening skills with the ability to adapt communication to different audiences. Strong organizational skills and the ability to assess priorities and adjust tasks to meet project timelines. Willingness to receive feedback, adapt to change, and learn from experience. Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field (e.g., biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or related discipline). Work Environment This position is on-site, requiring presence in a laboratory setting. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Durham, NC. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $30.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Durham,NC. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Apr 13, 2026. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through: Hiring diverse talent Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes Ensuring growth opportunities for our people Actalent is an equal opportunity employer. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC-with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day. Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.