Cell-Based Assay Research Associate I/II

Azalea Therapeutics, Inc.; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus/Equity eligible

Job summary

Azalea Therapeutics, Inc. is seeking a Research Associate I/II to join its Research & Development team in Berkeley, CA.

This hands-on lab role supports the advancement of AZA-2509 by developing, optimizing, and executing robust cell-based assays, generating high-quality data, and maintaining rigorous records. Collaboration across research and development will drive EDV delivery and genome editing platforms.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field; RA I: 0–2 years; RA II: 2–4 years of lab experience.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and cell-based assays.
• Experience with readouts such as flow cytometry, plate-based viability, or reporter assays.
• Experience with molecular biology read outs such as qPCR/dPCR; follow protocols and document results.
• Ability to analyze data, communicate findings clearly, and work in a collaborative setting.

Responsibilities

• Execute and support development of cell-based assays evaluating EDV delivery, genome editing, T-cell engineering, cellular activity, and candidate performance.
• Culture, expand, and maintain mammalian cell lines and primary immune cells using aseptic technique.
• Perform cell-based functional and potency assays using readouts such as ddPCR for editing, multicolor flow cytometry, plate-based viability or reporter assays, and cytotoxicity.
• Optimize assay conditions to improve sensitivity, dynamic range, robustness, and reproducibility.
• Prepare test articles, samples, reagents, controls, and assay plates according to approved protocols.
• Collect, analyze, and summarize assay data; document deviations.
• Maintain complete, accurate, and timely records in electronic lab notebooks and controlled systems.
• Prepare experimental summaries and communicate results at team meetings; contribute data to reports.
• Troubleshoot routine assay and cell-culture issues; improve method performance and transferability.
• Support laboratory operations through reagent prep, inventory, equipment upkeep, sample tracking, and safety adherence.
• Collaborate across functions and manage assigned work to timelines.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Cell-based assays

Flow cytometry

qPCR/dPCR

Data analysis

Laboratory safety

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field

Tools

ddPCR

Flow cytometer

qPCR

Job description

Azalea Therapeutics, Inc. is seeking a Research Associate I/II to join its Research & Development team in Berkeley, CA.

This hands-on lab role supports the advancement of AZA-2509 by developing, optimizing, and executing robust cell-based assays, generating high-quality data, and maintaining rigorous records. Collaboration across research and development will drive EDV delivery and genome editing platforms.