At Element Biosciences, we are passionate about our mission to empower the scientific community with more freedom and flexibility to accelerate our collective impact on humanity. We have built a highly efficient product-driven organization where employees can learn, grow, and thrive in a challenging but encouraging environment. We are committed to scientific integrity, collegiality, honesty, objectivity, and openness.

We are seeking a Research Associate, Surface Chemistry who has a curious mind and a great desire to learn new techniques in new areas of study to join our interdisciplinary research team. You’ll work at the interface of surface chemistry and biology, supporting assay development and exploring how cells interact with solid surfaces. This position is ideal for candidates eager to apply molecular biology and cell culture skills to interdisciplinary product innovation. The preferred candidate will have scientific research lab experience, demonstrated by any combination of prior curricular, extracurricular undergraduate research lab work, scientific paper, poster, or presentations. This role will report to our Senior Scientist and will be a San Diego based, on-site role.

If you possess the following and want to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to explore this role.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Perform routine mammalian and stem cell culture, including maintenance, passaging, and harvesting of cells
• Prepare and process cells for downstream assays and sequencing workflows by following established protocols
• Support assay development activities to understand cell-solid surface interaction mechanisms
• Assist in troubleshooting problems in experiments in terms of assay design, protocol, and reagents based on knowledge obtained from training or literature
• Document experiments and results accurately in the form of internal reports and publications
• Provide occasional weekend support for time-sensitive cell line maintenance
• Ensure proper handling and disposal of biological materials in accordance with BSL2 safety guidelines

Education and Experience:

• Minimum bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering or similar fields
• Up to 2 years of relevant lab experience, including internships or undergraduate research
• Hands-on experience in mammalian and stem cell culture; BSL-2 experience preferred
• Familiarity with next generation sequencing (NGS) technologies is a plus
• Basic algebraic, statistical, and mathematical skills are required
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills and ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills; proactive and solution-oriented mindset
• Demonstrates openness to constructive feedback and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds
• The position requires physical activity and the handling of chemicals. Candidates are required to follow the safety protocols and be familiar with personal protective equipment (PPE) while working in the laboratory environment

Location:

• San Diego – onsite

Travel: 

• Up to 5% - or as opportunity arises

Job Type:

• Full-time, Exempt

Base Compensation Pay Range:

• $69,000 - $85,000

In addition to base compensation noted above, you will be eligible for stock options, discretionary annual bonus, no cost health insurance plans, 401k with company match, and flexible paid time off. 

Please note: Base compensation will depend on multiple factors, including geographic location, qualifications, and experience. 

We foster an environment such that all people are afforded the freedom to pursue their passions without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status or any other characteristics protected by law.