Research Associate / Senior Research Associate, Genomic Core

About the Role

Xaira is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate / Senior Research Associate to join our Genomic Core team with a focus on next-generation sequencing (NGS). The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with Illumina-based sequencing technologies, including library preparation, single-cell workflows, and sequencer operation. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to a wide range of projects across therapeutic areas, supporting cutting-edge genomics research and technology development.

You will work closely with molecular biologists, computational scientists, and platform teams to generate high-quality sequencing data, implement new workflows, and ensure best practices in data generation and quality control.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare high-quality sequencing libraries for Illumina platforms using a range of methods (e.g., TruSeq, Nextera, Amplicon, etc.).
• Operate and maintain Illumina sequencers (e.g., MiSeq, NextSeq, NovaSeq), including run setup, monitoring, troubleshooting, and basic maintenance.
• Support and execute single-cell workflows, including 10x Genomics GEM-X and 10x Flex assays.
• Perform QC of input material and libraries (e.g., Bioanalyzer, TapeStation, Qubit, qPCR) and assess data quality post-sequencing.
• Collaborate with internal teams to support project-specific NGS needs.
• Troubleshoot experimental issues independently and suggest improvements to protocols and workflows.
• Develop and optimize NGS protocols and contribute to the scaling of automated or high-throughput sequencing pipelines.
• Contribute to the development of scalable, high-throughput cloning and viral production pipelines.
• Maintain detailed electronic lab notebook (ELN) records and ensure rigorous documentation for reproducibility and compliance.
• Participate in group meetings and communicate experimental progress, challenges, and insights to broader teams.
• Running analysis pipelines (e.g., bcl2fastq, CellRanger, etc).

Qualifications

• B.S./M.S. in Molecular Biology, Genomics, Biotechnology, or a related field with 2+ years of laboratory experience, including direct experience in NGS workflows.
• Proficient in Illumina sequencing library preparation methods for DNA and RNA, with a strong understanding of underlying biochemistry and assay design.
• Hands-on experience with Illumina sequencer operation and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with single-cell workflows (e.g., 10x Genomics GEM-X) and/or 10x Genomics Flex assays is strongly preferred.
• Experience with quality control methods for nucleic acids and libraries (e.g., fragment analysis, fluorometric quantification, library quantification).
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail in both benchwork and data documentation.
• Familiarity in library cloning techniques such as vector design, PCR, assembly methods (e.g. Gibson, Golden Gate), and bacterial transformation is a plus.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, supporting multiple projects and stakeholders.
• Knowledge of high-throughput or automated NGS library prep platforms is a plus.
• Familiarity with cloud-based LIMS or data tracking systems (e.g., Benchling, BaseSpace) is a plus.
• Basic knowledge of NGS data analysis (e.g., demultiplexing, QC metrics interpretation, familiarity with sequencing file formats) is a plus.

Compensation

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, seeking to provide an open, flexible, and friendly work environment to empower employees and provide them with a platform to develop their long-term careers. A Summary of Benefits is available for all applicants. We offer a competitive package that includes base salary, bonus, and equity. The base pay range for this position is expected to be $90,000 - $115,000 annually; however, the base pay offered may vary depending on the market, job-related knowledge, skills and capabilities, and experience.