Molecular Biology Associate

Key details

• On-site

• Location: Somerville, MA (East Somerville/Inner Belt)

• Part-time: 4 hours/day Mon-Fri, either 8:45 AM-12:45 PM or 1:15-5:15 PM

• Temporary: 12 week fixed term: September 28-December 18, 2026

• Salary: $30/hour and $2000 performance bonus
  

About Active Site

Active Site is a research nonprofit working at the intersection of AI and biology. We strive to understand how AI augments human performance in biological experimentation. Our work shapes how new technologies like AI interface with biological research.

About The Role

We are seeking Molecular Biology Associates to work independently on DNA assembly.

• Work Environment: This role is designed for highly autonomous researchers. You will not receive day-to-day technical assistance; instead, you will have the unique opportunity to fully own your research strategy, manage your own research budget, and independently drive your DNA assembly projects. While you will be working alongside other associates, you won’t collaborate together. Our lab and office is brand new and state-of-the-art.

• Core Tasks: You will work in a BSL-1 lab and use a range of skills to complete your project, including: DNA oligo/fragment design, assembly, gel electrophoresis, purification, sequencing interpretation, and molecular cloning.

• The AI Component: As part of this project, you will work with AI agents like Biomni, Claude Code, and Codex to ideate, design, and troubleshoot experiments.

Requirements

• Educational Background: You must be currently hold or be currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, or a closely related discipline. Currently enrolled PhD students are also welcome.

• Experience: At least 3 months of independent, iterative, and project-based research experience in PCR, gel electrophoresis, and molecular cloning. Demonstrated understanding of primer design, molecular software (Benchling), and molecular cloning methods.

• Work Authorization: This position is open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and individuals currently authorized to work in the U.S.. Active Site Research, Inc. is an E-Verify employer and complies with all applicable work authorization laws.
  

Referral Bonus

Refer a friend and earn $500: receive $250 once they're hired and accept the position plus $250 when they successfully complete the full 12-week term.

Referral bonuses are awarded only to referrals submitted through our official referral link before the candidate applies. Candidates who have already applied through any other channel are not eligible for referral bonus payout, regardless of any prior connection to the referrer.

Logistics & Policies

• Commute: The lab is accessible via Green line extension (East Somerville) and nearby Blue Bike stations. Parking is not provided.

• Flexibility & Remote Work: We cannot accommodate flexible hours outside 8:45 AM-5:15 PM or hybrid/remote work.

• Absences: We can schedule make-up days for illness, but we cannot accommodate pre-planned absences exceeding 5 days during the term.

• Concurrent Commitments: You may engage in other jobs or classes as long as they do not conflict with your scheduled hours.

• Future Employment: This is strictly a temporary role; we are not hiring full-time after the position ends.

• Holidays: Our office observes all federal holidays. During this term we’ll observe Columbus Day (Oct 12), Veteran's Day (Nov 11), and Thanksgiving (Nov 26 & 27). Holidays are unpaid.
  

Our Hiring Process

• Step 1: Submit Your Application

• Step 2: Paid in-person, onsite assessment (~2 hours & $60)

• Step 3: Offer

We’re reviewing applications on a rolling basis and aim to move quickly. If you’re interested, we recommend applying soon.

Equal Opportunity and Accommodations

Active Site Research, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of age, color, disability, sex, gender identity or gender expression, ancestry, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, marital or familial status, or any other personal characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Active Site Research, Inc. also complies with all applicable national, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act and IRCA. Active Site Research, Inc. is an E-Verify employer. Active Site Research, Inc. is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need an accommodation during the application process or to perform the essential functions of this job, please let us know.