About the roleThis is a unique opportunity to join a talented team of scientists and engineers focused on solving critical challenges in molecular data storage. To help drive this innovation, we are seeking a detail-oriented, hard-working, and highly motivated Research Associate to join our Systems Integration team. This individual will help develop the company's proprietary enzymatic DNA synthesis on semiconductor chips. The position will support reagent development, including characterization and QC, biochemical and enzyme assay development, on-chip DNA synthesis, and downstream sample processing including NGS library prep and analysis. This is a full-time bench position and the person will be expected to work closely with your supervisor and other team members to provide support for planning and execution of experiments. Above all, we are looking for a highly trainable candidate with a strong work ethic who is eager to learn and grow with the company.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities- Support and contribute towards the research and development of a custom high-throughput DNA synthesis platform for DNA data storage
- Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot custom DNA synthesizers
- Prepare and QC stock reagents and buffers for enzymatic DNA synthesis, using pH and assay-specific readouts
- Operate analytical tools for assessment of quality of oligonucleotides, including HPLC, LCMS, and capillary electrophoresis
- Perform NGS library prep on sample DNA oligo pools
- Optimize biochemical or related enzyme activity assays
- Utilize lab management and data analysis software to document data and produce scientific presentations and reports on experimental findings
- Strictly adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and documentation standards for data integrity
- Maintain clear written and verbal communication with your supervisor and cross-functional teams to ensure alignment on project timelines
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a closely related field (a Master's degree or prior relevant industry experience is a plus)
- Experience executing and troubleshooting biochemistry and molecular biology protocols in a research laboratory environment
- Experience with liquid handling laboratory automation is a plus
- Experience with Next Generation DNA sequencing (NGS), qPCR and/or DNA hybridization methods is a plus
- Experience in a biotech or pharma R&D environment is highly desirable
- Must be a creative and detail-oriented person with excellent analytical, verbal, and written communication skills
- Exceptional collaboration skills and ability to work seamlessly in a dynamic and fast-paced environment
Physical Demands Statement- The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Location: Work will be performed onsite in office and laboratory space located in South San Francisco.
- Mobility: Must be able to move about the laboratory and office environment regularly. This includes standing and walking for extended periods, often up to 6-8 hours per day.
- Manual Dexterity: Must have fine motor skills and steady hands to handle delicate instruments, operate laboratory equipment, pipette accurately, and perform repetitive benchwork with precision.
- Lifting/Carrying: Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds occasionally, such as boxes of lab supplies or equipment.
- Visual Acuity: Must have sufficient visual acuity to read small print on labels, instrument displays, and computer monitors. Close vision, color vision,and the ability to adjust focus are required.
- Communication: Must be able to communicate effectively in spoken and written English, including reading technical documents and participating in team meetings.
- Environmental Conditions: Frequently exposed to typical laboratory conditions, including biological samples, hazardous chemicals, and reagents. Must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, and safety goggles as required.
- Posture: Requires frequent standing, sitting, and occasional bending or reaching over lab benches or into biosafety cabinets.
The pay range for this role is:
80,000 - 115,000 USD per year (HQ)
