Research Associate

Department: In Vivo Immunology Reports to: Scientist II Location: Onsite 5 days per week in Alameda/Berkeley, CA Employment Type: Full-time FLSA Status: Exempt Bonus/Equity: Eligible About Azalea Azalea Therapeutics is enabling precision genome engineering directly inside the body, with an initial focus on creating cancer immunotherapies in vivo. Azalea is pioneering a new way to turn a person’s own T cells into a powerful cancer therapy — directly inside the body. Instead of removing cells and manipulating them in a lab, we use precision genome editing tools to engineer T cells where they already live. At the center of our approach are Enveloped Delivery Vehicles, or EDVs. As highly selective couriers, EDVs are designed to specifically locate T cells within the patient and deliver our genome engineering cargo. Once inside the cell, the anti-cancer agent is inserted into a precise site in the genome, ensuring safe and potent modifications to fortify the T cells against cancers. Why this matters: We aim to make cell therapy faster and more accessible by avoiding complex manufacturing outside the body. Our platform is designed for precision, so the right cells are safely programmed to effectively fight cancer. This technology has the potential to treat a wide range of cancers with a streamlined, scalable process. Our goal is simple: develop next-generation delivery technologies to bring genetic engineering and cell therapies to more patients. How We Work Azalea is building ambitious science in a fast-moving environment. The people who thrive here are accountable, adaptable, rigorous, humble, and direct. Across roles and functions, we look for team members who demonstrate the following: Outcome Ownership - We own results, close loops, and follow through without needing to be prompted. We take responsibility for moving work forward and ensuring important decisions, deliverables, and handoffs do not fall through the cracks. Comfort with Ambiguity - We operate in an early-stage environment where information may be incomplete and priorities may evolve. We clarify quickly, make thoughtful decisions with the information available, and adapt without unnecessary drama. High Standards, Low Ego - We care deeply about the quality of the work and the impact it can have for patients. We raise the bar while staying humble, direct, and open to feedback. Collaboration and Candor - We share context early, communicate clearly, partner across functions, and operate with transparency. We believe strong collaboration requires both trust and direct communication. The Opportunity Azalea Therapeutics is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate I/II – In Vivo Immunology to join our dynamic and growing team. Reporting to a Scientist II, the Research Associate I/II will work within a Research & Development team to develop robust animal models of disease, test novel therapeutics in vivo, and gather and analyze multi-dimensional data readouts. The Research Associate I/II will have a unique opportunity to impact both the science and environment of an early-stage biotechnology company. As part of an innovative, intellectually stimulating, and fast-paced team, the Research Associate I/II will help pursue Azalea’s goal of developing the next generation of cell and genome engineering therapies. The Research Associate I/II will have opportunities for rapid scientific and professional growth, working within a collaborative team setting and developing scientific independence. Opportunities to communicate scientific findings include company meetings, conference presentations, and/or journal publications. This is an onsite role with expectations to be onsite in our Berkeley and/or Alameda locations 5 days per week. Key Responsibilities Perform and support in vivo pharmacology studies in rodent models, including dosing (IV, IP, SC, PO) and tissue collection. Collect and process biological samples (blood, spleen, liver, and other organs) for downstream analysis. Assist in the development and optimization of in vivo disease models. Maintain and propagate ex vivo cell lines for in vivo studies. Manage the inventory of in vivo supplies across all laboratories. Maintain detailed and organized notes and results within an electronic notebook. Ensure compliance with IACUC protocols and maintain high standards of animal welfare. Analyze data and communicate results within a team setting. Work closely with the supervisor to schedule and prioritize workload to manage several tasks simultaneously. Additional duties and responsibilities as required based on the needs of the company. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications BS/BA in Molecular or Cell Biology or related life sciences discipline. 1+ years of hands-on laboratory research experience in an academia or industry setting; experience supporting in vivo pharmacology studies is preferred. Experience handling rodents and/or assisting with in vivo studies, including dosing, sample collection, or tissue processing. Familiarity with aseptic technique, mammalian cell culture, and standard laboratory practices. Strong organization skills with the ability to maintain accurate experimental records using electronic notebooks (ELNs). Ability to rapidly learn new technical skills as well as teach others. Ability to work both collaboratively and individually in a fast-paced research environment. Excellent communication, organizational and interpersonal skills with a strong attention to detail. Preferred Qualifications 1-3 years of laboratory research experience, in academia or industry, supporting in vivo pharmacology, immunology, oncology or related research programs. Hands-on experience with rodent handling, restraint, and dosing via IV, IP, SC, and/or PO routes. Experience collecting and processing blood and tissue samples for downstream molecular or cellular analyses. Experience maintaining mammalian cell cultures and preparing cells for in vivo studies. What Success Looks Like (first 3–6 months) Develop proficiency with animal handling, dosing, and tissue collection. Manage detailed notes, protocols, and results. Maintain the necessary In Vivo Immunology supplies across two laboratory spaces. Communicate effectively and work collaboratively within the In Vivo Immunology team and broader company. Working Conditions / Physical Requirements (as applicable) Ability to split time and travel between Azalea’s main laboratory space in Berkeley, CA and vivarium space in Alameda, CA. Ability to sit and stand throughout the day to complete the job's responsibilities. 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. Salary will be commensurate with experience, qualifications, training and market. This role is eligible for annual performance bonuses, equity grants, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, retirement plan with company match, and paid time off. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO): Azalea is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Reasonable Accommodation: We will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and to individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, consistent with applicable law. To request accommodation, email HR at HR email. Applicant Privacy: Azalea collects and uses applicant personal information for recruiting and employment purposes. If applicable, Azalea will provide a California applicant privacy notice describing categories of information collected, purposes, retention, and rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA/CPRA). Job Description Disclaimer: This job description may change at any time based on business needs. It is not a contract and does not create a promise of employment for any particular duration. #J-18808-Ljbffr