Applied Research Associate
JPMorganChase · New York, NY
- On site
- Full-time
- $120,000 / year
- New York, NY
Job highlights
- Conduct novel biological computing research experiments.
- Analyze and present complex scientific findings.
- Shape technology roadmaps with strategic insights.
- Collaborate with internal and external experts.
- Maintain rigorous lab documentation and protocols.
About the role
Applied Research Associate
JPMorgan Chase is seeking an Associate Molecular Biologist to join their corporate strategic foresight team. This role will explore the intersection of biology and computing, focusing on its potential for computing, storage, and security applications. You will design and execute experiments, analyze results, and provide clear recommendations to senior stakeholders to inform technology roadmap decisions. This position offers the opportunity to shape internal perspectives on cutting-edge areas like DNA-based storage, molecular computation, and molecular cryptography.
Job Responsibilities
- Design and conduct experiments to assess the feasibility, constraints, and performance of molecular computing and DNA-based storage concepts.
- Define hypotheses, success metrics, and test plans aligned with long-horizon technology questions and decision needs.
- Translate experimental outcomes and biological concepts into concise, executive-ready readouts and recommendations.
- Conduct horizon scanning across academic and industry research to identify weak signals, opportunity areas, and emerging risks.
- Contribute to scenario development, opportunity briefs, and risk/ethics considerations related to biological and computational convergence.
- Manage day-to-day lab activities, including inventory, consumables planning, and equipment readiness.
- Create, maintain, and improve standard operating procedures and version-controlled protocols.
- Maintain rigorous documentation, including experiment logs, reproducibility notes, and appropriate chain-of-custody records.
- Support safety, compliance, and risk assessment processes in line with applicable requirements.
- Coordinate with external partners and vendors to extend wet-lab execution capacity and track deliverables against timelines.
- Maintain awareness of relevant ecosystems (labs, startups, and consortia) and support relationship-building with external experts.
Required Qualifications, Capabilities, And Skills
- Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or a closely related field.
- Hands-on wet-lab experience with strong foundational knowledge of DNA/RNA systems and core molecular biology methods.
- Demonstrated ability to frame testable hypotheses, define measurable success criteria, and interpret experimental results.
- Ability to communicate complex scientific topics clearly to non-specialist, cross-functional stakeholders.
- Strong documentation discipline, including accurate lab notebooks, protocol control, and reproducibility practices.
- Working knowledge of lab safety practices and comfort operating within structured safety and quality expectations.
- Ability to manage multiple experiments and priorities with attention to detail and follow-through.
Preferred Qualifications, Capabilities, And Skills
- Experience with DNA data storage, DNA computing, molecular cryptography, or closely related research areas.
- Experience building proofs of concept in ambiguous problem spaces where constraints and requirements evolve.
- Familiarity with translating technical findings into strategic implications, decision memos, or executive updates.
- Experience coordinating external labs, vendors, or academic collaborations.
- Comfort engaging with emerging research communities and synthesizing trends into concise insights.
Key Skills/Competency
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
- DNA Storage
- Molecular Computing
- Experimental Design
- Data Analysis
- Scientific Communication
- Research
- Strategic Foresight
- Biochemistry
Skills & topics
- Applied Research Associate
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
- DNA Storage
- Molecular Computing
- Experimental Design
- Scientific Research
- JPMorgan Chase
- Strategic Foresight
- Biochemistry
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight molecular biology, DNA systems, and experimental design skills relevant to the job description.
- Showcase research experience: Quantify achievements in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.
- Prepare for technical questions: Be ready to discuss specific molecular biology techniques and DNA-based technologies.
- Demonstrate communication skills: Practice explaining complex scientific concepts clearly to a non-technical audience.
- Understand the company: Research JPMorgan Chase's technology initiatives and strategic foresight efforts.
Technical preparation
Master DNA/RNA systems and molecular biology methods.,Practice designing and executing complex experiments.,Familiarize yourself with DNA data storage concepts.,Prepare to document protocols and lab work meticulously.
Behavioral questions
Describe a complex scientific problem you solved.,How do you communicate technical findings to non-experts?,How do you manage multiple priorities and deadlines?,Give an example of a challenging collaboration.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary focus of the Applied Research Associate role at JPMorgan Chase?
- The Applied Research Associate role at JPMorgan Chase focuses on exploring how biology can be utilized for computing, storage, and security applications. This involves designing and conducting experiments related to DNA-based storage and molecular computation.
- What are the key responsibilities for an Applied Research Associate at JPMorgan Chase?
- Key responsibilities include designing and executing experiments, defining hypotheses and success metrics, translating scientific findings into executive-ready reports, conducting horizon scanning, and contributing to strategic scenario development.
- What educational background is required for this position?
- A Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or a closely related field is required for this position. Hands-on wet-lab experience with DNA/RNA systems and core molecular biology methods is also essential.
- What are the preferred qualifications for an Applied Research Associate?
- Preferred qualifications include experience with DNA data storage, DNA computing, molecular cryptography, building proofs of concept in ambiguous environments, and translating technical findings into strategic implications.
- How does JPMorgan Chase support employee development in this role?
- JPMorgan Chase offers a competitive total rewards package and a range of benefits including comprehensive health care, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities, supporting employees in roles like the Applied Research Associate.
- What is the expected work arrangement for the Applied Research Associate?
- The job description does not explicitly state the work arrangement. However, given the hands-on lab nature of the role, it is likely to be an on-site or hybrid position, with specific details provided during the hiring process.
- What kind of communication skills are needed for this role?
- The role requires the ability to communicate complex scientific topics clearly and concisely to non-specialist, cross-functional stakeholders, and senior leadership.
- What is the Chief Technology Office at JPMorgan Chase responsible for?
- The Chief Technology Office oversees enabling components such as engineering and architecture tools, program management, processes, and technology workforce strategy to position JPMorgan Chase as a leading technology company.