Research Technician- Molecular Biology

About St. Kitts Biomedical Research Foundation

The St. Kitts Biomedical Research Foundation (SKBRF) is a research organization devoted to advancing the development of therapies for human diseases and the application of related models of disease pathophysiology to drug and device evaluation.  SKBRF applies extensive expertise in many areas of therapeutic and diagnostic research for which clinically relevant models are feasible, with a focus on ophthalmic, central nervous system and metabolic research, as well as pharmacokinetic and safety studies.

Job Summary

The Research Technician will support molecular biology workflows related to nucleic acid extraction, RNA integrity assessment, and single-cell sequencing library preparation. This position is integral to the preparation and processing of high-quality DNA, RNA and protein samples for downstream applications, including qPCR, ddPCR, ELISA, western blot, and scRNAseq. The ideal candidate has prior hands-on experience with these workflows, demonstrates technical precision, and is highly reliable in a fast-paced lab setting.

Key Accountabilities of the Role

1.     Nucleic Acid Extraction: Perform DNA and RNA isolation from tissue and cell samples using column-based or magnetic bead-based extraction kits. Ensure high yield and purity appropriate for downstream applications.

2.     RNA Integrity Assessment (RIN): Use Agilent Bioanalyzer or equivalent platforms to assess RNA quality and determine RIN values prior to sequencing.

3.     Library Preparation: Assist in the preparation of libraries for single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing workflows, following in-house or vendor-specific SOPs (e.g., Parse Biosciences, 10x Genomics).

4.     Sample Handling & QC: Receive, track, and process biological specimens. Perform concentration and quality control checks using Nanodrop, Qubit, and Bioanalyzer.

5.     Data Documentation: Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, electronic records, and datasheets for all sample processing activities. Ensure traceability and compliance with SOPs.

6.     Lab Organization & Reagent Prep: Prepare buffers, primers, and working solutions. Manage lab stock levels and alert supervisor for low inventory. Maintain cleanliness and readiness of molecular workstations.

7.     Equipment Use & Maintenance: Operate and care for instruments used in nucleic acid workflows (centrifuges, thermal cyclers, Bioanalyzer, Qubit, etc.). Log maintenance activities per SOP.

8.     Safety Compliance: Adhere to all lab safety policies, including handling of human or animal tissues, chemicals, and reagents. Participate in required safety trainings and audits.

9.     QA/QC: Perform quality control and contribute to validation and verification of RNA/DNA-based workflows.

10.  SOP: Assist in writing and revising SOPs relevant to nucleic acid isolation, RNA quality control, and sequencing preparation steps.

Qualifications & Experience

1.     Education level/Certifications/Licensures

• BS in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or related field

2.     Experience

• 2+ years of laboratory experience focused on nucleic acid workflows, preferably in a regulated or high-throughput sequencing environment.
• Hands-on experience with RNA/DNA extraction and quantification
• Familiarity with RNA quality assessment and RIN analysis
• Experience with library preparation (single-cell preferred)
• Strong pipetting and sample tracking skills

Preferred Skills of Successful Candidate

• Good time management and data organization skills
• Teamwork and clear, efficient, and timely communication
• Great organization skills and attention to detail
• Experience and fluency with information technology platforms

Travel Expectations

• Ability to travel for work (less than 5% travel guided by company need).

Interested candidates may send their resumes on or before Friday August 28, 2026.