Research Associate #4531

Our mission is to detect cancer early, when it can be cured. We are working to change the trajectory of cancer mortality and bring stakeholders together to adopt innovative, safe, and effective technologies that can transform cancer care.

We are a healthcare company, pioneering new technologies to advance early cancer detection. We have built a multi-disciplinary organization of scientists, engineers, and physicians and we are using the power of next-generation sequencing (NGS), population-scale clinical studies, and state-of-the-art computer science and data science to overcome one of medicine’s greatest challenges.

GRAIL is headquartered in the bay area of California, with locations in Washington, D.C., North Carolina, and the United Kingdom. It is supported by leading global investors and pharmaceutical, technology, and healthcare companies.

For more information, please visit grail.com

GRAIL is seeking a Senior Associate Scientist to join our Assay Research group in R&D. This role will support assay research efforts through independent design and execution of molecular biology workflows supporting Grail’s mission to develop best in class Multi Cancer Early Detection tests. This role is well suited for an experienced bench scientist who is comfortable working with minimal supervision, can quickly learn new protocols, and enjoys hands-on laboratory work in a collaborative research environment.

You will work on-site full-time at our office located in Menlo Park, California. Beginning in Fall 2026, you will work at our new headquarters in Sunnyvale, California. While this role is primarily hands-on at the lab bench, there may be opportunities to work remotely when performing activities that can be executed outside the lab. You will work with your leader to determine schedule.

Responsibilities:
• Independently design experimental plans and execute complex laboratory experiments using molecular biology techniques including nucleic acid extraction, NGS library preparation, hybrid capture or sequencing.
• Perform basic data analysis tasks using common analysis tools such as excel, googlesheets, R, Python or similar tools.
• Communicate experimental findings in slide presentations, experimental reports, and verbal updates to the research team and broader R&D organization.
• Troubleshoot experimental issues and escalate appropriately with clear observations and data.
• Operate large liquid handling automation systems including Hamiltons and automated workcells.
• Maintain accurate and complete experimental records using a digital lab notebook.
• Collaborate with other scientists and cross-functional partners to support ongoing assay research efforts

Required Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field with 2-5 years of relevant laboratory experience or Masters degree with 2-4 years of experience.
• Hands-on experience with common molecular biology techniques including nucleic acid extraction and quantification, PCR/qPCR, Hybridization Capture, NGS library preparation or NGS sequencing methods.
• Proven ability to work independently in the lab and execute experiments with minimal supervision.
• Comfortable receiving a new or unfamiliar protocol, asking clarifying questions, and executing it accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to generating high-quality, reproducible data.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Prior experience in cancer biology, oncology diagnostics, or industry liquid biopsy research.
• Strong familiarity with NGS library preparation and sequencing techniques.
• Experience optimizing laboratory methodologies and troubleshooting complex problems.
• Data analysis experience in one or more programming language (R, Python or similar)
• Experience working with large liquid handers (Hamilton, Tecan, workcell or similar)
• Experience working in a regulated or quality-conscious laboratory environment

The expected, full-time, annual base pay scale for this position is $95K-$117K. Actual base pay will consider skills, experience, and location.

This role may be eligible for other forms of compensation, including an annual bonus and/or incentives, subject to the terms of the applicable plans and Company discretion. This range reflects a good-faith estimate of the range that the Company reasonably expects to pay for the position upon hire; the actual compensation offered may vary depending on factors such as the candidate’s qualifications. Employees in this role are also eligible for GRAIL’s comprehensive and competitive benefits package, offered in accordance with our applicable plans and policies. This package currently includes flexible time-off or vacation; a 401(k) retirement plan with employer match; medical, dental, and vision coverage; and carefully selected mindfulness programs.

GRAIL is an equal employment opportunity employer, and we are committed to building a workplace where every individual can thrive, contribute, and grow. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, status as a protected veteran, , or any other class or characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, and local laws. Additionally, GRAIL will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in a manner consistent with applicable law and provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please contact us at [email protected] if you require an accommodation to apply for an open position.

GRAIL maintains a drug-free workplace. We welcome job-seekers from all backgrounds to join us!