job summary: This is a great opportunity to join a fast-paced, innovative gene therapy team as a Research Associate or Sr. Research Associate focused on Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) within the Genomic Medicine Unit in Waltham, MA. Working 100% onsite, you'll contribute to cutting-edge AAV capsid discovery programs that impact multiple disease areas. You'll have access to state-of-the-art sequencing platforms and collaborate cross-functionally in a supportive and well-resourced research setting-with free parking and potential for contract extension. Ideal candidates will bring hands-on experience with NGS, RNA-seq, and Illumina sequencing platforms, along with a BS or MS degree in biotechnology or a related field. If you're excited by translational science and want to be part of the future of gene therapy, this role offers the chance to work at the forefront of therapeutic innovation. location: Waltham, Massachusetts job type: Contract salary: $53.00 - 55.53 per hour work hours: 9 to 5 education: Bachelors responsibilities: Support and lead NGS workflows to analyze AAV capsid and plasmid libraries Process RNA samples and perform RNA-seq from in vitro and in vivo studies Operate Illumina NextSeq instruments and contribute to sequencing runs Apply molecular biology and biochemistry techniques to support gene therapy discovery Maintain clear experimental records and present data to internal teams Collaborate closely with scientists across discovery, screening, and bioinformatics qualifications: Required Skills: BS or MS degree in biotechnology, molecular biology, or related field Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience with NGS technologies Strong experience with RNA-seq and Illumina platforms Familiarity with AAV library preparation and sequencing Excellent organizational, communication, and documentation skills Preferred Skills: Experience with amplicon sequencing and NGS data analysis platforms Exposure to lab automation for sequencing workflows Prior biotech/pharma or high-level academic research experience Ability to thrive in a fast-moving, collaborative research environment #LI-AM1 skills: Cell Biology, Biology, Microbiology Equal Opportunity Employer: Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Genetic Information, Disability, Protected Veteran Status, or any other legally protected group status.At Randstad, we welcome people of all abilities and want to ensure that our hiring and interview process meets the needs of all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation to make your application or interview experience a great one, please contact HRsupport@randstadusa.com. Pay offered to a successful candidate will be based on several factors including the candidate's education, work experience, work location, specific job duties, certifications, etc. In addition, Randstad offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: medical, prescription, dental, vision, AD&D, and life insurance offerings, short-term disability, and a 401K plan (all benefits are based on eligibility). This posting is open for thirty (30) days. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.