Research Associate III
Caris Life Sciences
June 27, 2026
On-site
Tempe, AZ
Clinical Research and Development
Position Summary
Research Associate III (RA III) serves as a technical leader in the laboratory, driving complex experimental workflows and ensuring scientific excellence across multiple platforms. Expertise required in mammalian cell culture systems and cell-based assays for validation of drug targets. Independently design, execute, and optimize experiments involving cell growth and cytotoxicity assays, immunocytochemistry (ICC), cellular internalization, and antibody characterization/validation.
Additional responsibilities may include: FFPE block preparation, PCR, protein extraction and quantification, western blotting, biomarker discovery/target identification, affinity purification, immunoprecipitation, ELISA/ELONA, RNA/DNA extraction and QC, Next-Generation Sequencing sample preparation, mass spectrometry sample prep, and aptamer selection.
Job Responsibilities
- Demonstrate advanced proficiency in mammalian cell culture, ICC, cellular internalization, cytotoxicity assays, and related technologies.
- Independently design, execute, and interpret complex experiments; recommend next steps.
- Mentor/training for Research Associates, Molecular Technologists, and new team members.
- Develop/optimize SOPs, workflows, and QC procedures.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure calibration/documentation/safety compliance.
- Manage reagent/consumable inventory (verification, labeling, storage).
- Collaborate cross-functionally to troubleshoot technical challenges.
- Contribute to experimental planning, timelines, and data review discussions.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s + 4 years post-graduate experience or Master’s + 2 years in a relevant scientific field.
- Extensive hands-on experience: mammalian cell culture, sterile technique, microscopic imaging, cell-based assays (plate design, instrument setup, data analysis).
- Ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues and interpret multidimensional datasets.
- Success in fast-paced, deadline-driven research environments.
- Strong written/verbal communication; ability to present data and train others.
- Deep lab safety knowledge (biohazards, chemical safety, regulatory compliance).
- Attention to detail; strong organizational/documentation skills.
- Ability to articulate molecular/cellular assay experience (controls, interpretation, troubleshooting).
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and standard laboratory data systems.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in biological sciences.
- Experience leading small project teams or acting as technical lead.
- Plus: experience with cell growth/viability assays, ICC, cellular internalization, cytotoxicity assays.
- Commitment to quality, continuous improvement, operational excellence.
- Collaborative mindset; contribute to shared scientific goals.
Other/Instructions (if applicable)
- All job-specific, safety, and compliance training assigned based on responsibilities and regulatory requirements.
- Periodic travel; occasional evening/weekend/holiday work; possible after-hours/on-call support.
- Pre-employment process includes criminal background check, drug screening, credit check (for certain positions), and reference verification.
Research Associate III (RA III) serves as a technical leader in the laboratory, driving complex experimental workflows and ensuring scientific excellence across multiple platforms. Expertise required in mammalian cell culture systems and cell-based assays for validation of drug targets. Independently design, execute, and optimize experiments involving cell growth and cytotoxicity assays, immunocytochemistry (ICC), cellular internalization, and antibody characterization/validation.
Additional responsibilities may include: FFPE block preparation, PCR, protein extraction and quantification, western blotting, biomarker discovery/target identification, affinity purification, immunoprecipitation, ELISA/ELONA, RNA/DNA extraction and QC, Next-Generation Sequencing sample preparation, mass spectrometry sample prep, and aptamer selection.
Job Responsibilities
- Demonstrate advanced proficiency in mammalian cell culture, ICC, cellular internalization, cytotoxicity assays, and related technologies.
- Independently design, execute, and interpret complex experiments; recommend next steps.
- Mentor/training for Research Associates, Molecular Technologists, and new team members.
- Develop/optimize SOPs, workflows, and QC procedures.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure calibration/documentation/safety compliance.
- Manage reagent/consumable inventory (verification, labeling, storage).
- Collaborate cross-functionally to troubleshoot technical challenges.
- Contribute to experimental planning, timelines, and data review discussions.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s + 4 years post-graduate experience or Master’s + 2 years in a relevant scientific field.
- Extensive hands-on experience: mammalian cell culture, sterile technique, microscopic imaging, cell-based assays (plate design, instrument setup, data analysis).
- Ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues and interpret multidimensional datasets.
- Success in fast-paced, deadline-driven research environments.
- Strong written/verbal communication; ability to present data and train others.
- Deep lab safety knowledge (biohazards, chemical safety, regulatory compliance).
- Attention to detail; strong organizational/documentation skills.
- Ability to articulate molecular/cellular assay experience (controls, interpretation, troubleshooting).
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and standard laboratory data systems.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in biological sciences.
- Experience leading small project teams or acting as technical lead.
- Plus: experience with cell growth/viability assays, ICC, cellular internalization, cytotoxicity assays.
- Commitment to quality, continuous improvement, operational excellence.
- Collaborative mindset; contribute to shared scientific goals.
Other/Instructions (if applicable)
- All job-specific, safety, and compliance training assigned based on responsibilities and regulatory requirements.
- Periodic travel; occasional evening/weekend/holiday work; possible after-hours/on-call support.
- Pre-employment process includes criminal background check, drug screening, credit check (for certain positions), and reference verification.