Research Associate

Job Title: Research Associate

Job Description

The Research Associate will focus on conducting enzyme activity assays, protein characterization, immobilized enzyme preparation, catalyst testing, and routine laboratory operations using established methods and procedures. This position is critical in ensuring efficient execution of research programs and generating reliable data to support technology development, scale-up, and commercialization initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Execute laboratory experiments according to established protocols and project plans.

• Perform enzyme activity assays, enzyme stability testing, and biocatalyst performance evaluations.

• Prepare immobilized enzyme samples using established immobilization methodologies and support materials.

• Conduct routine analytical testing and experimental measurements.

• Record observations, analyze results, and maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and electronic records.

• Prepare samples, reagents, buffers, and solutions required for experimental activities.

• Support preparation and characterization of enzyme-based catalyst systems.

• Perform protein concentration measurements and routine biochemical analyses.

• Conduct catalyst activity, stability, and recyclability testing.

• Assist in evaluating immobilization efficiency and catalyst performance under various operating conditions.

• Organize and summarize experimental data for technical review.

• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper operation of testing instruments.

• Assist with routine instrument calibration, troubleshooting, and maintenance activities.

• Monitor laboratory inventory and support ordering of consumables, chemicals, and laboratory supplies.

Essential Skills

• Proficiency in cell culture, biology, and laboratory techniques.

• Experience with enzyme activity assays, stability testing, and biochemistry.

• Strong skills in protein assay and protein characterization.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• BS in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific discipline.

• Strong academic background in biochemistry, enzymology, biotechnology, or related laboratory sciences.

• 2+ years of industrial, academic, or applied laboratory experience in biochemistry, biotechnology, or related fields.

• Experience conducting enzyme assays, protein characterization, or related biochemical analyses preferred.

• Experience preparing buffers, reagents, and biological samples.

• Hands-on experience performing enzyme activity assays and biochemical experiments.

• Familiarity with protein concentration measurement techniques and routine laboratory instrumentation.

Work Environment

The work environment is a laboratory setting operating on the 1st shift, Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Conshohocken, PA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $28.85 - $33.65/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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 Conshohocken,PA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 14, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.