Research Assistant (San Diego)

Research Associate

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., with flexibility as needed

Weekly Hours: 40

Reports To: Principal Scientist, Biology

BioPhase is seeking a Research Associate to join an innovative biotechnology company’s In Vitro Biology team. This hands-on laboratory role will support the evaluation of siRNA and antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) compounds using molecular biology, cell-based assays, and measurements of drug activity.

The ideal candidate brings at least two years of laboratory experience, strong experimental and analytical skills, and familiarity with gene-silencing technologies. You will collaborate with scientists to validate compounds, evaluate novel technologies, and generate data that supports research decisions in a dynamic, early-stage environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute in vitro assays to evaluate the effects of siRNA and antisense oligonucleotides on RNA transcripts, protein expression, and other project-specific endpoints.
• Perform molecular and cell-based assays, including RNA transfection, RNA and protein isolation, RT-qPCR, RNA sequencing, Western blotting, and fluorescence immunocytochemistry.
• Execute protein chemistry and target-validation protocols, including SDS-PAGE, ELISA, and Western blotting.
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures and support routine cell-based laboratory workflows.
• Collaborate with colleagues on experiments supporting compound validation and technology evaluation.
• Design experiments, analyze complex data, and interpret experimental findings.
• Maintain clear, accurate documentation of experimental methods, workflows, and results.
• Present findings and communicate research updates to colleagues and management.
• Support additional research activities and laboratory responsibilities as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant life sciences discipline.
• At least two years of laboratory experience.
• Familiarity with ELISA, siRNA, antisense oligonucleotides, and gene silencing.
• Relevant experience in molecular biology and cell biology.
• Ability to independently design experiments, analyze data, and interpret and present results.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong quantitative, computational, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in an entrepreneurial, early-stage research environment.

Preferred Background

• Biotechnology industry experience is strongly preferred.
• Experience with RNA transfection, mammalian cell culture, RNA and protein isolation, and gene-expression analysis.
• Experience with RT-qPCR, RNA sequencing, ELISA, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, or fluorescence immunocytochemistry.
• Exposure to in vivo assays or measurements of drug activity.