Associate Scientist

SRG; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

SRG is seeking a versatile scientist with hands-on experience in cell biology, molecular biology, and biochemical assays. The candidate will support multiple research programs and quickly adapt to new protocols.

You will perform mammalian cell culture, run molecular and cellular assays, and document data with rigor while collaborating across teams to optimize assay performance.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Biology or related field.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture.
• Strong attention to detail and data quality.
• Ability to support multiple programs across research teams.

Responsibilities

• Perform and maintain mammalian cell culture.
• Execute and analyze molecular and cellular assays.
• Western blotting and absorbance-based assays.
• qPCR and gene expression analysis.
• Document results with scientific rigor and communicate findings.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize assay performance.
• Maintain SOPs and meticulous lab records.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Molecular biology

Data analysis

Experiment planning

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

BS/MS in Biology or related field

Tools

JESS/Automated Western

qPCR instruments

Plate readers/Absorbance readers

RNA/DNA isolation

Transfection

Confocal microscopy

Job description

We are seeking a highly versatile and hands‑on scientist with broad technical expertise across cell biology, molecular biology, and biochemical assay platforms. The ideal candidate is a strong experimentalist who can be deployed across multiple research programs and is comfortable learning and executing a wide range of laboratory techniques. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, strong laboratory skills, and the ability to generate high-quality data in a dynamic research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform and maintain mammalian cell culture (non-bacterial systems), including routine cell maintenance, expansion, and experimental workflows.
• Execute and analyze a variety of molecular and cellular assays, including:
• Western Blotting (experience with JESS/automated western systems is highly desirable)
• Absorbance-based assays and plate reader workflows
• qPCR and gene expression analysis
• Additional molecular biology techniques such as RNA/DNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, protein quantification, transfection, and related methods
• Support multiple research projects by rapidly adapting to new protocols and assay platforms.
• Generate, analyze, document, and communicate experimental results with accuracy and scientific rigor.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot experiments and optimize assay performance.
• Maintain meticulous laboratory records and adhere to SOPs and laboratory best practices.

Required Qualifications

• BS/MS in Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline.
• Demonstrated experience with mammalian cell culture.

Hands‑on experience with:

• ELISA, HTRF, Absorbance-based assays, qPCR
• Other fundamental molecular biology techniques
• Strong laboratory dexterity and excellent attention to detail; steady hands and precision in executing experimental procedures.
• Broad technical background with the ability to support a variety of scientific programs rather than a narrow area of specialization.
• Proven ability to learn new techniques and contribute across multiple projects simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and advanced cell culture systems.
• Hands‑on experience with confocal microscopy, including platforms such as Opera Phenix and image analysis software such as Columbus.

Experience with:

• Cell staining and phenotyping techniques
• Antibody‑based assays and antibody characterization
• Biochemical assay development and execution
• Complex cell culture models
• Strongly preferred background in adipocyte biology, adipocyte cell culture, or metabolic disease research.