Research Assistant - Biochemistry and Structural Biology
RiboForge
Summary
We are looking for a motivated Research Assistant to join our biochemistry and structural biology team in Los Angeles. A major part of this role will be supporting X-ray crystallography workflows, including sample preparation, crystal screen setup and optimization, and the harvesting, freezing, and storage of protein or nucleic acid crystals. You will also work alongside our scientists to prepare reagents, carry out biochemistry experiments, and maintain well-organized samples and experimental records.
Job description
About the Role
We are looking for a motivated Research Assistant to join our biochemistry and structural biology team in Los Angeles. A major part of this role will be supporting X-ray crystallography workflows, including sample preparation, crystal screen setup and optimization, and the harvesting, freezing, and storage of protein or nucleic acid crystals. You will also work alongside our scientists to prepare reagents, carry out biochemistry experiments, and maintain well-organized samples and experimental records.
This is a hands-on role for a researcher with strong basic laboratory skills who enjoys careful experimental work and troubleshooting. You will have the opportunity to develop your structural biology skills while contributing to RNA-targeted drug discovery.
Key Responsibilities
- Harvest protein or nucleic acid crystals under a microscope, transfer them into cryoprotectant, and freeze and store samples for X-ray diffraction studies.
- Prepare samples and set up crystallization screens; monitor crystal growth and help optimize crystallization conditions.
- Prepare buffers, stock solutions, and dilutions using accurate micropipetting and appropriate sterile technique.
- Support routine biochemistry experiments and sample preparation for structural characterization.
- Maintain clear sample labeling, organized inventories, and complete records of crystallization conditions and harvested crystals.
- Document experimental procedures and results, communicate progress, and work with the team to troubleshoot experiments.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, or a closely related field is a plus, but is not required.
- Research experience that includes work on X-ray crystallography, with familiarity with sample preparation, crystal screen setup, and optimization.
- Hands-on experience fishing, harvesting, freezing, and storing protein or nucleic acid crystals is strongly preferred.
- Basic wet lab experience is required, including sterile technique, micropipette use, and preparation of dilutions, stock solutions, and buffers.
- Experience working with RNA and using RNase-free technique is a plus.
- Attention to detail and strong organizational skills, including accurate experimental records and careful sample handling.
- Clear communication and the ability to explain experimental procedures, observations, and results.
- A collaborative approach, curiosity about the scientific process, and enthusiasm for contributing to drug discovery in a startup environment.
Requirements
- Research experience involving X-ray crystallography
- Familiarity with sample preparation, crystal screen setup, and optimization
- Hands-on experience fishing, harvesting, freezing, and storing protein or nucleic acid crystals (strongly preferred)
- Basic wet lab experience including sterile technique, micropipette use, and preparation of dilutions, stock solutions, and buffers
- Experience working with RNA and RNase-free technique (plus)
- Bachelor's degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, or closely related field (plus, not required)
- Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
- Clear communication skills
- Collaborative approach
Benefits
- Health Coverage
Company overview
RiboForge is an innovative biotechnology startup pioneering the development of small molecule therapeutics that target RNA structures, representing a cutting-edge approach in drug discovery. Based in Los Angeles and incubated at UCLA's Magnify Incubator at CNSI, the company focuses on structure-based RNA-ligand discovery to create small molecule binders with enhanced specificity and drug-like properties. RiboForge operates in the substantial market for RNA-targeted small molecule drugs, addressing multiple indications in oncology, neurodegenerative disorders, and genetic diseases where validated RNA targets exist. The company's technology offers key advantages over competing approaches like antisense or gene therapy, particularly in delivery, toxicity, dosing, and manufacturing cost. As a stealth startup exploring the leading edge of RNA-targeted drug discovery, RiboForge represents the next generation of therapeutic innovation, combining structural biology insights with traditional small molecule drug development to unlock new treatment possibilities for challenging diseases.