Cell Biology Research Associate — Neuronal Cultures & Assays

merge.io; California; On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Merge Labs in California is seeking a Research Associate to join the Expression team. You will work alongside scientists to characterize engineered molecular systems in mammalian cell models, including neurons, growing and maintaining cell cultures, and developing cell-based assays.

You will perform gDNA/RNA extraction, RT-qPCR, and high-content microscopy, analyze data, troubleshoot results, and document workflows. This hands-on role offers growth and increasing ownership of experiments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in cell biology, molecular biology, neuroscience, bioengineering, or related field.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and cell-based assays with aseptic technique.
• Familiarity with microscopy, plate-based assays, nucleic acid extraction, and qPCR.
• Strong documentation and collaborative skills.

Responsibilities

• Grow, maintain, and perform experiments on mammalian cell lines and neuronal cultures.
• Evaluate engineered genetic constructs and delivery conditions in neuronal and other mammalian cell models.
• Develop and run high-content microscopy and plate-based assays to measure expression, cellular fitness, and viability.
• Perform routine biochemical and molecular analyses, including gDNA/RNA extraction and RT-qPCR.
• Analyze and present findings, troubleshoot unexpected results, and help design follow-up experiments.
• Maintain detailed experimental records, protocols, and organized inventories.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Cell-based assays

Aseptic technique

Microscopy

qPCR

Nucleic acid extraction

Data interpretation

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in cell biology, molecular biology, neuroscience, bioengineering, or related field

Tools

Microscopy systems

Plate readers

RT-qPCR instruments

Job description

Merge Labs in California is seeking a Research Associate to join the Expression team. You will work alongside scientists to characterize engineered molecular systems in mammalian cell models, including neurons, growing and maintaining cell cultures, and developing cell-based assays.

You will perform gDNA/RNA extraction, RT-qPCR, and high-content microscopy, analyze data, troubleshoot results, and document workflows. This hands-on role offers growth and increasing ownership of experiments.