Senior Scientist

About Us Deciphr Health is a seed-stage biotech developing programmable DNA nanostructures for next-generation point-of-care diagnostics. Our first clinical application targets preeclampsia screening — a condition that affects 1 in 25 pregnancies with no adequate rapid test. We're building from our R&D lab in San Carlos, CA.

The Role You'll own the aptamer discovery pipeline end-to-end: from SELEX campaign design through NGS-based candidate selection to biochemical characterization of lead binders. This is a hands-on bench role with high autonomy — you'll be the team's go-to expert on nucleic acid selection, modification, and bioconjugation. You'll also contribute to our broader DNA nanostructure platform (with internal training provided).

What You'll Do

• Design and run SELEX campaigns (affinity-based and capture-release formats) against clinically relevant protein targets
• Perform site-specific bioconjugation of oligonucleotides to proteins, fluorophores, and surface chemistries
• Purify and QC modified oligos and conjugates (HPLC, FPLC, spin-column)
• Prepare and manage NGS libraries to identify top aptamer candidates from selection rounds
• Monitor selections via qPCR/RT-PCR and develop binding validation assays
• Support fabrication and testing of DNA nanodevices following internal protocols

What We're Looking For

• PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or related field — or MS with 3–5+ years of hands-on industry experience
• Deep, demonstrated expertise in SELEX (not just familiarity — you've run campaigns)
• Strong oligo handling skills: purification, chemical modification, conjugation chemistry
• Proficiency with HPLC, qPCR, and NGS library prep workflows
• Comfort working in a startup environment with minimal infrastructure and high ownership

Nice to Have

• Exposure to DNA nanotechnology or structural DNA assembly
• Experience with phage display, cell-SELEX, or tissue-based selections
• HPLC instrument maintenance and troubleshooting

Compensation Base salary commensurate with experience + meaningful early-stage equity.

Location San Carlos, CA (on-site; this is a lab-based role).