OPT Lab Associate Jobs
Lab Associate jobs are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or a related STEM field. Most positions qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving you up to three years of authorized work experience in a U.S. laboratory setting.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Twist Bioscience is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual to support customer-driven Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) projects within a fast-paced, service laboratory. This role will work cross-functionally with Sales, R&D, Field Applications, and Customer Support teams to deliver high-quality sequencing data and solutions. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic environment, is highly organized, and is committed to maintaining production timelines while ensuring scientific excellence.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Execute NGS library preparation, target enrichment, and sequencing workflows according to established protocols
- Process samples for NGS analysis while meeting production schedules and customer timelines
- Perform routine molecular biology techniques including PCR/qPCR, DNA quantification, purification (e.g., SPRI), and electrophoresis
- Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, including liquid handling robots and sequencing platforms
- Troubleshoot experimental and equipment-related issues to ensure continuity of workflows
- Track multiple projects and samples simultaneously, ensuring accurate and detailed documentation (including batch records and deviations)
- Analyze experimental data and contribute to interpretation of results
- Support development, optimization, and execution of NGS-related protocols and workflows
- Maintain digital files and records associated with sequencing runs
- Ensure compliance with regulatory standards (e.g., ISO 13485) and internal quality requirements
- Support general lab operations including cleaning, restocking, and maintaining a well-organized workspace
- Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams under aggressive timelines
What You’ll Bring to the Team
- B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field (Associates degree with relevant experience may be considered)
- Hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, DNA purification, quantification, and library preparation
- Experience working in a laboratory environment with strong attention to detail and documentation practices
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment
- Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a collaborative mindset
- Self-motivated with a commitment to delivering high-quality results
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- 3–5 years of experience in molecular biology, NGS workflows, or a related field
- Direct experience with NGS platforms (e.g., Illumina, PacBio, Element, ONT) and associated sample preparation workflows
- Experience with NGS library preparation and target enrichment workflows
- Experience with a range of NGS applications DNA, RNA, and Methylation assays
- Strong familiarity with analytical tools such as BioAnalyzer or TapeStation, Qubit fluorometry and Nanodrop spectrophotometry
ABOUT TWIST BIOSCIENCE
Twist Bioscience synthesizes genes from scratch, known as “writing” DNA. Just as children learn to both read and write, the next phase of development for the genomics revolution is the ability to write DNA.
At Twist Bioscience, we work in service of people who are changing the world for the better. In fields such as health care, agriculture, industrial chemicals and data storage, our unique silicon-based DNA Synthesis Platform provides precision at a scale that is otherwise unavailable to our customers.
Twist Bioscience Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Twist Bioscience Corporation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic characteristics, or any other category protected by law.
COMPENSATION
- San Francisco Bay Area Pay Range: $94,000—$110,000 USD
The base cash compensation for this California-based role is below. In addition to base salary, this role is eligible for bonus, equity, and a generous benefits package. Final compensation amounts are determined by multiple factors, including candidate skill, experience, expertise, and location and may vary from the amount listed above. Compensation may be different in other locations.
INTRODUCTION
Twist Bioscience is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual to support customer-driven Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) projects within a fast-paced, service laboratory. This role will work cross-functionally with Sales, R&D, Field Applications, and Customer Support teams to deliver high-quality sequencing data and solutions. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic environment, is highly organized, and is committed to maintaining production timelines while ensuring scientific excellence.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Execute NGS library preparation, target enrichment, and sequencing workflows according to established protocols
- Process samples for NGS analysis while meeting production schedules and customer timelines
- Perform routine molecular biology techniques including PCR/qPCR, DNA quantification, purification (e.g., SPRI), and electrophoresis
- Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, including liquid handling robots and sequencing platforms
- Troubleshoot experimental and equipment-related issues to ensure continuity of workflows
- Track multiple projects and samples simultaneously, ensuring accurate and detailed documentation (including batch records and deviations)
- Analyze experimental data and contribute to interpretation of results
- Support development, optimization, and execution of NGS-related protocols and workflows
- Maintain digital files and records associated with sequencing runs
- Ensure compliance with regulatory standards (e.g., ISO 13485) and internal quality requirements
- Support general lab operations including cleaning, restocking, and maintaining a well-organized workspace
- Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams under aggressive timelines
What You’ll Bring to the Team
- B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field (Associates degree with relevant experience may be considered)
- Hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, DNA purification, quantification, and library preparation
- Experience working in a laboratory environment with strong attention to detail and documentation practices
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment
- Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a collaborative mindset
- Self-motivated with a commitment to delivering high-quality results
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- 3–5 years of experience in molecular biology, NGS workflows, or a related field
- Direct experience with NGS platforms (e.g., Illumina, PacBio, Element, ONT) and associated sample preparation workflows
- Experience with NGS library preparation and target enrichment workflows
- Experience with a range of NGS applications DNA, RNA, and Methylation assays
- Strong familiarity with analytical tools such as BioAnalyzer or TapeStation, Qubit fluorometry and Nanodrop spectrophotometry
ABOUT TWIST BIOSCIENCE
Twist Bioscience synthesizes genes from scratch, known as “writing” DNA. Just as children learn to both read and write, the next phase of development for the genomics revolution is the ability to write DNA.
At Twist Bioscience, we work in service of people who are changing the world for the better. In fields such as health care, agriculture, industrial chemicals and data storage, our unique silicon-based DNA Synthesis Platform provides precision at a scale that is otherwise unavailable to our customers.
Twist Bioscience Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Twist Bioscience Corporation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic characteristics, or any other category protected by law.
COMPENSATION
- San Francisco Bay Area Pay Range: $94,000—$110,000 USD
The base cash compensation for this California-based role is below. In addition to base salary, this role is eligible for bonus, equity, and a generous benefits package. Final compensation amounts are determined by multiple factors, including candidate skill, experience, expertise, and location and may vary from the amount listed above. Compensation may be different in other locations.
See all 645+ OPT Lab Associate Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Lab Associate
Lead with your degree field, not just your title
Hiring managers assess OPT eligibility by your CIP code, not your job title. Clarify upfront that your degree is in a qualifying STEM field, biology, chemistry, or biochemistry, so employers can confirm STEM OPT extension eligibility without guesswork.
Address the 24-month STEM extension early
Many lab employers are unfamiliar with OPT timelines. Mention in your cover letter that your STEM degree qualifies you for up to three years of OPT work authorization. This reassures hiring teams that you're not a short-term hire.
Target E-Verify registered employers
The STEM OPT extension requires your employer to be enrolled in E-Verify. Research this before applying. Pharmaceutical companies, university labs, and large biotech firms like Thermo Fisher and Labcorp are almost always already enrolled.
Highlight hands-on lab skills in concrete terms
Generic resumes get filtered out fast. List specific techniques you've performed: PCR, ELISA, cell culture, HPLC, or microscopy. Lab managers hire on technical fit, and specificity signals real bench experience rather than classroom familiarity.
Prepare your DSO to issue an updated I-20 quickly
Some employers want to see your I-20 before extending an offer. Coordinate with your Designated School Official in advance so they can issue an updated document quickly. Delays here have cost candidates offers at time-sensitive labs.
Ask about the training plan requirement during interviews
STEM OPT requires a formal training plan (Form I-983) co-signed by the employer. Asking about this during the interview signals that you understand the process and reduces the administrative surprise for employers approving your extension.
Lab Associate OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Lab Associate jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most Lab Associate roles qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension if your degree is in a STEM-designated field such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or microbiology. The job must also be directly related to your degree. Your employer must be registered with E-Verify, and you'll need to complete Form I-983 as a formal training plan with them.
How do I find Lab Associate employers that are willing to hire OPT students?
Browse Lab Associate listings on Migrate Mate, which is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters for employers open to sponsoring or hiring on work authorization. Pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations, and university research labs are among the most OPT-friendly in this field, as they routinely work with international researchers and understand the documentation requirements.
What documents will a Lab Associate employer ask to verify my OPT status?
Expect to provide your EAD card, your most recent I-20 with the OPT authorization page, and your passport. Some employers also request your I-94 arrival record and a copy of your SEVIS confirmation. Have digital copies ready before your first day, as HR teams at regulated labs often need these for compliance audits and E-Verify enrollment.
Can I work part-time as a Lab Associate on OPT?
Yes, but with an important constraint. During your standard OPT period, USCIS requires you to work at least 20 hours per week to maintain valid status and avoid gaps counted against your unemployment limit. During the STEM OPT extension, you must work a minimum of 20 hours per week as well, and the training plan must reflect those hours accurately.
What happens if my OPT expires before my employer can sponsor an H-1B?
If you've applied for the STEM OPT extension before your initial OPT expires, you're covered by an automatic 180-day cap-gap while USCIS processes the application. If your employer wants to sponsor an H-1B visa, the annual lottery opens in March for an October 1 start date, so timing your STEM extension to bridge that gap is critical. An immigration attorney can help you map the exact sequence.