Senior Research Associate

About iQ Biosciences:iQ Biosciences provides high-quality biospecimens and intelligent research services to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and diagnostic industries. More than a reliable vendor, we are a trusted partner to the biomedical community, united by a shared mission to help cure disease. From emerging biotech to global pharma, our teams work at the intersection of scientific innovation and commercial strategy, particularly in Immunology, Oncology, and related therapeutic areas. As we enter a dynamic growth phase, we are seeking a highly motivated Cellular Products Senior Research Associate who can combine hands-on cellular processing work with management responsibilities, including training and process optimization.Position Description: Senior Research Associate (01) – Discovery Sciences (Cellular Products):The Senior Research Associate (SRA), Cellular Products will lead, execute, and optimize cell-based workflows across iQ's Cellular Products portfolio. This position is primarily lab-based, requiring extensive technical expertise in cell isolation, flow cytometry, cell expansion, functional assays, and process improvement. The SRA will act as a technical lead and mentor for other Research Associates (RAs), overseeing workflow execution, SOP updates, and quality control while maintaining alignment with operational and R&D goals.The successful candidate will demonstrate strong ownership, technical mastery, and leadership—ensuring efficient, reproducible, and high-quality cellular product generation and analysis.Key Responsibilities:Technical Execution & Process OwnershipPerform isolation of cells (human, non-human primate, rodent, etc.) using density gradient centrifugation, immuno-magnetic isolation, and other methods.Execute and oversee multi-color flow cytometry (staining, acquisition, data analysis).Perform and interpret functional assays such as ADCC, ADCP, TDCC, T cell activation, and Treg suppression, as needed to characterize cellular products.Plan, execute, and analyze cell expansion projects to generate internal and client cellular products.Maintain precise and prompt electronic records, including LIMS data entry.Ensure accuracy in cell counting, cryopreservation, and reagent preparation.Perform small animal ordering, euthanasia, tissue harvesting, and processing, and coordinate related lab efforts.Execute all aspects of the workflow with a high level of technical competency, independence, and efficiency.Demonstrate complete ownership of the end-to-end process, from preparation and execution through documentation, analysis (Forecyt, etc.), and LIMS reporting.Workflow Optimization & Continuous ImprovementLead optimization initiatives to streamline workflows and improve throughput in accordance with company goals.Review and update all cellular product SOPs to ensure completeness, clarity, and alignment with best practices.Implement standardized documentation and version control for processes, validations, and training records.Contribute to process scale-up, automation, and integration with procurement and data systems.Provide technical insights for protocol optimization, experimental design, and product improvement initiatives.Quality Control & Technical SupportAssign, perform, and/or release 100% of required QC tests based on business needs within agreed timelines, with results documented in Zoho.Ensure all validations are completed on schedule with full documentation.Provide rapid technical troubleshooting (within 24 hours) and ongoing cross-departmental support to Client Services (CS) and R&D.Training & ManagementTrain and/or manage Research Associates in cellular processing, ensuring proficiency and adherence to SOPs, and rapid onboarding.Ensure that all individuals involved with animal euthanasia and tissue harvesting are appropriately trained.Maintain deep process knowledge to train, guide, and support team members, while ensuring consistency and adherence to established protocols.Maintain an active database of approved personnel and training records.Conduct regular coaching sessions, workflow observations, and biannual performance reviews.Participate in manager development programs and apply new management strategies within the team.Requirements:Must be able to lift and move objects weighing up to 40 pounds approximately 0 to 1 time per day/shift Activity: Lifting Large Shipping BoxesFrequency: 0-1 time(s) per dayItem Dimensions: 18"H x 12"W x 13"DWeight: 40 lbsStarting Height: 43"Finish Height: 0"Distance from Body: 5"Must be able to lift and move objects weighing up to 25 pounds approximately 5 to 10 times per day/shift. Activity: Lifting Liquid Nitrogen RacksFrequency: ~5-10 times per dayItem Dimensions: 33" H x 6" W x 6" DWeight: 25 lbs.Starting Grip Height: 43"Finish Grip Height: 60"Distance from Body: 14"Must be able to stand and walk continuously throughout an 8-hour shift.Must comply with laboratory policies and procedures.Must be available to work evenings or weekends if needed.Qualifications:B.S. with >5 years of experience, M.S. with >3 years of experience, or Ph.D. (with wet lab experience) in the areas of Immunology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.Technical Expertise:Strong proficiency in sterile technique and mammalian cell culture.Demonstrated expertise in flow cytometry (≥2 years required).Experience with immunoassays and functional cell-based assays.Familiarity with LIMS and project management systems (e.g., Zoho Projects).Soft Skills:Excellent written and verbal communication skills.Strong leadership, training, and mentoring abilities.Detail-oriented, proactive, and adept at troubleshooting.Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects with high accuracy.General:Full-time, exempt position, not subject to FLSA or California overtime regulations.Must be able to work Monday-Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.This is a 100% on-site position located in Alameda, CA, with occasional travel as needed.Starting range $110K to $120K (Position range $110K to $140K)*Medical, dental, vision, FSA with employer match, 401K with employer match (after 90 days introductory period), paid holidays, PTO, Long Term Disability, and free lunch/snacks.Starting range is what iQ will pay someone starting in this role. Full range includes the minimum and maximum for this title, allowing for potential performance-based increases over time.Note: This Job description outlines the potential duties and requirements of the Senior Research Associate – Cellular Products position. Duties will be determined based on business need and additional responsibilities may be assigned, as necessary, to support the goals and objectives of the organization.