Skip to Main Content

Job Title


Research Associate II


Company : Actalent


Location : Carlsbad, CA


Created : 2026-04-23


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Research Associate u2013 Analytical & Bioanalytical R&DAbout the Role We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our Research & Development team and support the analysis of cartridge components used in cuttingu2011edge diagnostic products. In this role, you will perform analytical and bioanalytical testing on printed circuit boards (PCBs), screenu2011printed substrates, and injectionu2011molded components within a structured, GLPu2011compliant R&D environment. You will contribute directly to product development and technology transfer efforts while gaining handsu2011on experience across analytical chemistry, molecular biology, and diagnostic assay innovation. This is an excellent opportunity for a detailu2011oriented scientist who enjoys handsu2011on lab work, interdisciplinary collaboration, and solving complex technical problems. Key Responsibilities + Perform analytical and bioanalytical experiments to support cartridge component development, including work with PCBs, screenu2011printed substrates, and injectionu2011molded parts + Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot analytical chemistry instrumentation, including spectroscopic tools and pH measurement equipment + Prepare reagents, buffers, and lowu2011concentration solutions in accordance with GLP standards and established laboratory protocols + Handle samples with accuracy and care, ensuring proper labeling, storage, and full traceability + Maintain clear, complete, and compliant documentation of experimental procedures, observations, and results in laboratory notebooks + Analyze experimental data, compile results, and communicate findings through reports, presentations, and internal team meetings + Support crossu2011functional product development, diagnostic assay development, and technology transfer activities + Manage laboratory inventory, including reagents and consumables, to ensure uninterrupted operations + Follow all GLP, safety, and biosafety protocols when working with hazardous chemicals and bloodu2011borne pathogens + Use productivity and data tools (Google Workspace, Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) to document and communicate results + Manage multiple experiments concurrently in a fastu2011paced R&D environment while delivering highu2011quality results on schedule + Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment, including proper waste disposal and equipment care Essential Skills & Experience + Handsu2011on experience operating and calibrating analytical chemistry instrumentation, including spectroscopic methods and pH measurement + Ability to independently execute experiments and accurately document results in laboratory notebooks and reports + Experience preparing reagents, buffers, and lowu2011concentration solutions under GLP or similar quality standards + Minimum of 2 years of postu2011BSc laboratory experience in a Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Molecular Biology R&D setting + Background in one or more of the following areas: analytical chemistry, molecular biology, PCR, biochemistry, or diagnostic assays + Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical data to crossu2011functional audiences + Proficiency with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) + High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective time management + Ability to safely handle hazardous chemicals and bloodu2011borne pathogens while adhering to safety protocols + Ability to meet physical requirements, including frequent standing and walking, occasional lifting of up to 35 lbs, and use of close and color vision Preferred Qualifications + Bacheloru2019s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific discipline + Experience working in an R&D environment focused on diagnostic assays or medical device components + Familiarity with electroanalytical techniques such as cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), or square wave voltammetry (SWV) + Experience with MATLAB Simulink for data analysis or modeling + Comfort working across multiple laboratory disciplines and adapting to evolving project priorities + Interest in contributing to technology transfer and product development in a regulated environment Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Carlsbad, CA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $40.00/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: u2022 Medical, dental & vision u2022 Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital u2022 401(k) Retirement Plan u2013 Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available u2022 Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) u2022 Short and long-term disability u2022 Health Spending Account (HSA) u2022 Transportation benefits u2022 Employee Assistance Program u2022 Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Carlsbad,CA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Apr 28, 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, weu2019ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APACu2014with 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 .