Research Associate I/II (Cell-Based Assay Development)

Key Responsibilities: Execute and support development of cell-based assays evaluating EDV delivery, genome editing, T-cell engineering, cellular activity, and candidate performance. Culture, expand, and maintain mammalian cell lines and primary immune cells using aseptic technique; monitor cell health, viability, density, and passage history. Perform cell-based functional and potency assays using relevant readouts such as ddPCR for editing, multicolor flow cytometry, plate-based viability or reporter assays, and cytotoxicity. Optimize assay conditions, including cell seeding density, stimulation parameters, dose range, incubation time, controls, and acceptance criteria, to improve sensitivity, dynamic range, robustness, and reproducibility. Prepare test articles, samples, reagents, controls, and assay plates according to approved protocols and experimental plans. Collect, analyze, and summarize assay data using appropriate software; evaluate assay performance, identify trends and outliers, and document deviations. Maintain complete, accurate, and timely records in electronic laboratory notebooks and other controlled systems, following applicable procedures and data-integrity expectations. Prepare experimental summaries and communicate results at team meetings; contribute data and figures to technical reports and presentations. Troubleshoot routine assay and cell-culture issues, escalate significant deviations, and partner with colleagues to improve method performance and transferability. Support laboratory operations through reagent preparation, inventory management, equipment upkeep, sample tracking, and adherence to safety requirements. Collaborate across functions, manage assigned work to agreed timelines, and contribute to a culture of scientific rigor, transparency, and respect.

Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in biology, cell biology, bioengineering, biochemistry, immunology, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience. Research Associate I: 0–2 years of relevant laboratory experience. Research Associate II: 2–4 years of relevant laboratory experience, including evidence of increased technical independence. Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and execution of cell-based assays in an academic, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical laboratory. Experience with at least one cell-based assay readout, such as flow cytometry, plate-based viability or reporter assays, proliferation, cytokine release, activation, or cytotoxicity. Experience with molecular biology read outs of cell based assays, such as qPCR and digital PCR. Ability to follow protocols, perform careful calculations, organize concurrent experiments, and produce accurate and reproducible work. Ability to analyze data, assess assay quality, communicate findings clearly, and work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary setting. Commitment to laboratory safety, research integrity, accurate documentation, and responsible handling of biological materials.

Compensation and Benefits: The expected salary range for this role based on the primary location for this position in California is $70,000 - $90,000 per year. Offer amounts are determined by factors such as experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. Benefits offered include paid time off, paid holiday's, medical, dental, vision, 401k with Company match, and other employee benefits and perks.