Research Associate IV - Tempe, AZ

At Caris, we understand that cancer is an ugly word—a word no one wants to hear, but one that connects us all. That's why we're not just transforming cancer care—we're changing lives. · We introduced precision medicine to the world and built an industry around the idea that every ...

Job description

At Caris, we understand that cancer is an ugly word—a word no one wants to hear, but one that connects us all. That's why we're not just transforming cancer care—we're changing lives.

We introduced precision medicine to the world and built an industry around the idea that every patient deserves answers as unique as their DNA. Backed by cutting-edge molecular science and AI, we ask ourselves every day: "What would I do if this patient were my mom?" That question drives everything we do.

But our mission doesn't stop with cancer. We're pushing the frontiers of medicine and leading a revolution in healthcare—driven by innovation, compassion, and purpose.

Join us in our mission to improve the human condition across multiple diseases. If you're passionate about meaningful work and want to be part of something bigger than yourself, Caris is where your impact begins.

Position Summary

Research Associate IVs serve as technical leaders within the laboratory, driving complex experimental workflows and ensuring scientific excellence across multiple platforms. This role requires expertise in mammalian cell culture systems and/or multi‑parameter flow cytometry, as well as high‑content cellular assays. Research Associate IVs independently design, execute, and optimize experiments involving cell growth and cytotoxicity assays, antibody characterization & validation, flow cytometry assays, immunocytochemistry, and other cellular and molecular biology techniques.

Additional responsibilities may include preparation of formalin‑fixed paraffin‑embedded (FFPE) blocks, 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.

Research Associate IVs play a key role in laboratory operations, including equipment oversight, inventory management, sample tracking, and onboarding/training of new team members. They collaborate closely with research scientists, senior scientists, and R&D leadership, contributing to experimental planning, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of laboratory workflows.

Job Responsibilities

• Demonstrates advanced proficiency in mammalian cell culture, flow cytometry, and other technologies listed in the Position Summary.
• Independently designs, executes, and interprets complex experiments, providing scientific insight and recommending next steps.
• Serves as a technical mentor to fellow Research Associates, Molecular Technologists, and new team members; leads hands‑on training in advanced techniques and best practices.
• Develops and optimizes SOPs, workflows, and QC procedures to improve data quality, reproducibility, and operational efficiency.
• Performs routine and advanced maintenance of laboratory equipment; ensures compliance with calibration, documentation, and safety standards.
• Manages reagent and consumable inventory, including verification, documentation, labeling, and storage under appropriate conditions.
• Collaborates cross‑functionally with R&D, Operations, Quality and Safety teams to support project goals and troubleshoot technical challenges.
• Contributes to experimental planning, project timelines, and data review discussions with senior scientific staff.\
• Performs additional duties as assigned to support laboratory and organizational objectives.

Required Qualifications

• Extensive hands‑on experience in mammalian cell culture, sterile technique, and flow cytometry, including panel design, instrument setup, compensation, and data analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues and interpret multidimensional datasets.
• Proven success working in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven research environment.

Strong commitment to quality, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present data and train others effectively.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across teams and contribute to shared scientific goals.
- Deep understanding of laboratory safety procedures, biohazard handling, chemical safety, and regulatory compliance.
- Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and documentation accuracy.
- Bachelor's (with six years post-graduate experience) or Master's degree (with four years post-graduate experience) in a relevant scientific field; equivalent experience considered.
- Ability to clearly articulate prior experience with flow cytometry, molecular and cellular assays, including controls, data interpretation, and troubleshooting strategies.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and standard laboratory data systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in a biological science field.
• Experience leading small project teams or acting as a technical lead.
• Familiarity with high‑parameter flow cytometry, cell sorting, or advanced cell culture techniques.

Physical Demands

• Periodic computer work and use of office equipment for documentation and inventory management.
• Visual acuity to distinguish fine detail; ability to pass a color‑vision test.
• Manual dexterity for sterile technique and operation of laboratory instruments.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and perform repetitive motions.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Potential exposure to noise, fumes, chemicals (including carcinogens), and biohazardous materials.
• May handle blood‑borne pathogens and general laboratory reagents.
• Possible exposure to extreme temperatures and chemical fumes.

Training

• All job‑specific, safety, and compliance training assigned based on responsibilities and regulatory requirements.

Other

• Periodic travel and occasional evening, weekend, or holiday work may be required.
• May require after‑hours response to urgent laboratory or equipment issues.
• Participation in on‑call rotations as needed.

Conditions of Employment: Individual must successfully complete pre-employment process, which includes criminal background check, drug screening, credit check ( applicable for certain positions ) and reference verification.

This job description reflects management's assignment of essential functions. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Caris Life Sciences is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.