Research Associate I/II - Biochemistry/Formulations

We are seeking a detail-oriented and dedicated individual to produce non-viral delivery systems as a member of the pre-clinical genome editing research team. Reporting to the project team leader, this position will play a crucial role in enabling in vivo studies to evaluate next-generation gene editing systems by producing, optimizing, and qualifying non-viral vehicles such as lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). You will have the opportunity to make a lasting impact as you partner with the mRNA core team and the therapeutic project teams to advance projects toward IND filing. This role will be based in Emeryville, California.

About the Role

By the end of your first 6 months, you would be expected to be proficient in the production of lipid nanoparticles at a small scale using established methodologies. The ideal candidate would also have experience with mRNA handling and synthesis. Candidates should be enthusiastic and passionate about bringing the next generation of nucleic acid-based therapies to patients.

• Work closely with project teams to schedule supply of required materials for in vivo studies and facilitate smooth handoff to in vivo personnel
• Ensure supplies of required raw materials by planning and ordering
• Keep accurate laboratory notebook records of each experiment and supply details of quality control to project leads
• Keep an accurate inventory of the materials produced and track usage and storage
• Handle the receipt, aliquoting and storage of viral vectors produced at external vendors
• Potential to learn additional techniques including tissue processing, PCR, Next Generation Sequencing library prep and data analysis, quantitative PCR

Desired Qualifications

What will enable you to thrive as our new research associate responsible for non-viral vector will be:

• Undergraduate degree in biochemistry/chemistry/ molecular biology or a related discipline
• At least one year of hands-on research laboratory experience in either academia or industry (including internships) required
• Track record of challenging oneself to enhance technical skills and knowledge
• Effective oral and written communication skills, particularly when collaborating with other teams with limited knowledge of your area of expertise
• Extremely organized and able to efficiently manage your time and workflow, including skillfully prioritizing both long-term projects and day-to-day responsibilities
• Able to quickly learn and adapt to new software tools (ex: Google Suite, Slack, etc.)
• Highly collaborative, team-oriented, and considerate of the needs of others
• Thrives in a fast-moving, results-oriented startup environment with urgent deadlines
• Independent and self-sufficient, but knows when to ask questions or seek support
• Self-motivated, passionate about your work, and eager to continuously learn more

Preferred additional qualifications:

• Experience with handling RNA and performing plate based biochemical assays
• Experience with biophysical characterization (DLS/PDI, Zeta Potential)
• Expertise with formulation methodology (dialysis, diafiltration, spin column concentrators)
• Experience with gene editing and/or mRNA-based therapeutics

The anticipated base salary range for this position will be $70,000 - $95,000 depending on the exact level of the role. As this role is open to candidates with a wide range of skills and experience, the exact salary will be dependent on the specific level of the position. We value transparency and will make every effort to provide you with a succinct explanation for how the final salary within this range is determined.

Please note, all candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.