Research Associate

The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to join the team as we develop and scale our unique DNA synthesis technology. You will contribute to foundational experiments, protocol development, and manufacturing scale-up while working directly with the founding team. In this role, you will help build a culture of scientific excellence within the company.

What You'll Do

• Independently execute and optimize molecular biology experiments focused on DNA workflows.
• Refine protocols for the production and analysis of DNA products, ensuring scalability and reproducibility.
• Prepare and clearly communicate data and experimental methodology.
• Troubleshoot and solve technical challenges in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, including automation and bioinformatics experts.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of experiments, including data analysis, protocols, and results.
• Contribute to the development of quality control methods and analytical techniques to ensure the accuracy and reliability of DNA products.
• Collaborate with the team to transition R&D projects to scalable production workflows.

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• 1-3 years of hands-on experience in molecular biology.
• Strong laboratory skills with a demonstrated ability to execute, troubleshoot, and optimize protocols.
• Prior experience with DNA workflows, including DNA cloning and sequencing.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to present complex data clearly and concisely.
• Passion for innovation and a desire to be part of a startup that is pushing the boundaries of synthetic biology.

Strongly Preferred

• Experience with automated liquid handling technology.
• Experience with high throughput workflows.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools for design and sequencing of DNA.
• Experience supporting laboratory operations, including inventory management, equipment maintenance, and reagent tracking.
• Familiarity with SOPs, quality control documentation, and laboratory best practices.

What Will Make You Stand Out

• You've built a protocol or process that didn't exist before and made it work reliably.
• You've worked in a setting where you had to figure it out, not just follow a manual.
• You're the kind of person who notices a problem and fixes it before being asked.