Research Associate/Senior Research Associate - RNA Biology

Metagenomi in Emeryville, California, United States

$85,000 - $115,000

We are seeking a Research Associate/Senior Research Associate focused on understanding and optimizing the activity of guide RNAs in novel gene editing systems. As a member of the RNA Biology team, this person contributes their molecular and cell biology skills to solve challenges related to the function, activity, and therapeutic delivery of guide RNAs. Candidates should be enthusiastic, passionate, have attention to detail, and a desire to change the world. This role will be based in Emeryville, California.

How you’ll contribute:

  • Working with the group lead, perform experiments to explore the impact of guide RNA chemistry and structure on gene editing outcomes
  • Contribute to biochemical assay development to characterize engineered guide RNAs
  • Collaborate with Pre-Clinical Therapeutic teams to meet project timelines and milestones
  • Prepare accurate and timely data summaries and contribute to writing of reports, papers, and patent manuscripts


What you bring:

  • BS or MS in biology, genetics, molecular biology, or a related discipline
  • At least two years of relevant research experience,
    • Substantial experience transfecting mammalian cells using electroporation
    • Experience performing 96-well plate-format assays
    • Experience analyzing and interpreting NGS data
    • Excellent time management and organizational skills to keep up with demand of requests coming into the team
    • Track record of challenging oneself to enhance scientific skills and knowledge
    • Experience working in a cross collaborative team including bioinformaticians, downstream processing engineers, and project managers
    • Highly collaborative, solutions oriented, and thrives in a fast-moving startup environment

  • Preferred experience
    • Hands-on experience with gene-editing technologies in mammalian cells, including analysis of genome-editing outcomes
    • Experience transfecting primary cells using lipofection and/or LNPs
    • Experience processing animal tissues for RNA, DNA, and protein analysis

California Pay Transparency Disclosure:

This position is classified as an exempt position under the Federal Labor Standards Act.  The anticipated base salary range for this position will be $85,000 to $115,000 .  You will also be eligible to receive equity, bonuses, and a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits depending on the position offered. Please note that individual total compensation for this position will be determined at the Company’s sole discretion and may vary based on location, skill level, years and depth of relevant experience, and education.

About Metagenomi

Metagenomi is a gene editing company committed to developing potentially curative therapeutics by leveraging a proprietary toolbox of next-generation gene editing systems to accurately edit DNA where current technologies cannot. Our metagenomics-powered discovery platform and analytical expertise reveal novel cellular machinery sourced from otherwise unknown organisms. We adapt and forge these naturally evolved systems into powerful gene editing systems that are ultra-small, extremely efficient, highly specific and have a decreased risk of immune response. These systems fuel our pipeline of novel medicines and can be leveraged by partners. Our goal is to revolutionize gene editing for the benefit of patients around the world. For more information, please visit https://metagenomi.co/.

What makes Metagenomi a unique place to work?

  • We are passionate about developing technologies derived from microbial-rich ecosystems that have the power to enable therapeutic development and the potential to cure devastating disease.
  • We have cultivated an amazing culture that values teamwork, curiosity, scientific rigor, and fun. We have a strong commitment to work/life balance, host a weekly employee happy hour and events, provide catered lunches and endless snacks, and more!
  • We offer competitive compensation including a market-benchmarked salary, annual target bonus, equity in an early-stage startup, and a comprehensive benefits plan, including 401(k) matching, a retirement safe harbor plan, and other perks.

At Metagenomi, we know that our people drive our success. We are an equal-opportunity employer and believe in and value diversity and inclusion. Metagenomi provides an open, collegial, and friendly work environment where we empower people and provide them with opportunities to develop their long-term careers. Metagenomi does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, age, physical or mental disability, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. Please note, all candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

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Notice to agencies: Our in-house Talent Acquisition Team manages all employment opportunities at Metagenomi. Agencies and independent recruiters must be approved as a vendor by Metagenomi’s Talent Acquisition team. To protect the interests of all parties, Metagenomi will not accept unsolicited resumes, profiles, or biographies. Any unsolicited resumes sent to Metagenomi will be considered referrals and the property of Metagenomi.

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