Lab Robotics Research Associate

Discover International; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Discover International is expanding its high-throughput genomics platform in San Francisco. The Lab Robotics Research Associate will design and optimize automation workflows, integrate AI-driven tools with the robotics fleet, and partner with scientists to improve data quality at scale.

The role emphasizes hands-on hardware work, problem solving from first principles, and scalable production of lab automation solutions to accelerate biotechnology research.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Biology or related field; or equivalent experience.
• 2+ years of lab experience with molecular biology protocols.
• 1+ year of Python programming experience.
• 1+ year of experience with liquid handling systems (Opentrons, Hamilton).
• 3D printing and CAD experience preferred (Fusion 360).
• Interest in biotechnology and DNA sequence analysis preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and improve lab automation protocols that process tens of thousands of samples per day.
• Help develop AI-driven tools that use robotics to speed up research.
• Measure and improve performance of custom in-house automation hardware.
• Help prototype custom 3D-printed tools.
• Collaborate with scientists to build high-throughput lab automation.

Skills

Lab automation

Python

3D printing

Fusion 360

DNA sequence analysis

Education

BS or MS in Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Biochemistry, or related field

Tools

Opentrons

Hamilton

Job description

Our client is a fast-growing, venture-backed genomics company working to speed up scientific discovery by making high-quality sequencing data faster, simpler, and more affordable. Thousands of researchers across academia, biotech, and top pharmaceutical companies use their services every day.

After transforming one area of DNA sequencing, the company is now expanding its high-throughput model across genomics more broadly. Its global lab network turns samples into results in hours instead of weeks. This is a chance to join a high-impact team at an exciting stage of growth.

Position Overview

The automation team is central to delivering top-quality data at industry-leading speed. As a Lab Robotics Research Associate, you’ll connect the company’s science with its robotics fleet. You will:

• Develop and improve lab automation protocols that process tens of thousands of samples per day
• Help develop AI-driven (agentic) tools that use the robotics fleet to speed up scientific research
• Measure and improve the performance of custom in-house automation hardware
• Help prototype custom 3D-printed tools
• Work closely with expert scientists to build robust, high-throughput lab automation

You’ll Excel If You:

• Enjoy hands-on work with physical systems and hardware
• Like to understand problems from first principles
• Are curious and enjoy learning from experts in scientific and biological fields
• Can take projects from idea to production on your own
• Value clear communication and helping others build new skills
• Want to make a real impact on the next generation of medicines and biotechnology

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Biochemistry, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• 2+ years of lab experience and familiarity with molecular biology protocols
• 1+ year of experience with liquid handling systems (e.g., Opentrons, Hamilton) and lab robotics
• 1+ year of Python programming experience
• Preferred: 3D printing and basic CAD experience (e.g., Fusion 360)
• Preferred: Interest in biotechnology and DNA sequence analysis