Research Associate

CRESCENTA BIOSCIENCES INC.; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Bonus based on performance

Health insurance

Paid time off

Stock options plan

Job summary

CRESCENTA BIOSCIENCES INC. in Irvine, CA is seeking a Research Associate / Lab Manager to conduct preclinical laboratory studies and oversee the day-to-day operation of the R&D lab.

You will perform cell-based and biochemical assays on small-molecule drug candidates, maintain mammalian cell cultures, prepare reagents, collect and summarize data, and present results to the scientific team in a collaborative biotechnology environment. This hands-on role combines science with lab operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's degree in biology or related field.
• At least 3 years of hands-on lab experience in biotech/pharma.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture and cell-based assays.
• Ability to follow protocols and keep accurate records.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform cell-based and biochemical assays to evaluate drug candidates.
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures and perform routine procedures.
• Prepare reagents and samples for studies.
• Collect, analyze, and summarize experimental data.
• Maintain accurate lab records and documentation.
• Present results to the scientific team.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication

Time management

Follow protocols

Independent but collaborative

Education

BS or MS in Biology/related field

Tools

Flow cytometry

ELISA

qPCR

Immunofluorescence

Job description

Benefits:

• 401(k)


• Bonus based on performance


• Health insurance


• Paid time off


• Stock options plan

About the Company

Crescenta is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing novel therapies for metabolic and autoimmune diseases and cancer. We are advancing a pipeline of proprietary drug candidates through preclinical and clinical development. We are seeking a motivated and highly organized Research Associate / Lab Manager to join our R&D team. This is a hands-on scientific position combining responsibilities for conducting preclinical laboratory research with oversight of the day-to-day operation and organization of the laboratory.

Position Summary

The successful candidate will perform and support laboratory studies evaluating small-molecule drug candidates, working closely with senior scientists and company leadership. In parallel, the individual will help ensure that the laboratory operates efficiently, safely, and in accordance with established procedures.

This position is particularly well suited for a scientist who enjoys hands-on experimental work while taking ownership of laboratory operations in a dynamic, collaborative biotechnology environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform cell-based and biochemical assays to characterize drug candidates and investigate their biological effects.


• Maintain mammalian cell cultures and perform routine cell-based experimental procedures.


• Prepare reagents, solutions, samples, and other materials required for laboratory studies.


• Collect, organize, analyze, and summarize experimental data.


• Maintain complete, accurate, and timely laboratory records and experimental documentation.


• Present and discuss experimental results with the scientific team.


• Assist with development, optimization, and troubleshooting of experimental protocols and assays.


• Operate laboratory equipment and help coordinate routine maintenance, calibration, and service as needed.


• Support laboratory inventory, ordering, organization, and appropriate storage of reagents and supplies.


• Assist with sample preparation, tracking, and shipment to external collaborators and contract research organizations (CROs).


• Work collaboratively with internal team members, consultants, CROs, and other external research partners.

Qualifications Required

• BS or MS in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Pharmacology, or a related field.


• At least 3 years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience in a biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or comparable research setting.


• Experience with mammalian cell culture and cell-based assays.


• Ability to independently follow protocols, troubleshoot routine issues, and maintain accurate records.


• Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills.


• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently within a collaborative team.

Preferred

• Background in preclinical small-molecule drug discovery.


• Experience with flow cytometry, ELISA, qPCR, immunofluorescence, or related techniques.


• Experience managing laboratory inventory, purchasing, equipment, safety, or SOPs.


• Experience working with CROs, vendors, or service providers.