Research Associate 1 (Temporary)

Cellanome; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

Cellanome is hiring a Research Associate 1 for a six-month project to run end-to-end workflows on the R3200 platform, processing living cells through multi-day assays and converting them into sequencing-ready libraries.

The role includes weekend shifts, with one or two weekend days per week, and offers exposure to a growing startup environment, collaboration with biology and engineering teams, and potential for future opportunities within our expanding service contracts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in cell biology, molecular biology, or a related field.
• Hands-on lab experience with cell culture techniques and assays.
• Willingness to work weekends; regular weekend coverage required.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols precisely.

Responsibilities

• Process samples end to end: prepare cells, set up instrument runs, oversee library prep, and perform QC.
• Follow SOPs and document steps in real time using LIMS.
• Support troubleshooting with lab development and other internal teams.
• Help improve processes with feedback to LIMS and development teams.
• Onboard and execute new processes as the menu expands.

Job description

We’re a well-funded start-up. You’ll get a chance to wear many hats, be a part of a growing team, and have the potential for exciting financial and career growth.

Here’s what sets us apart.

We’ve set our sights on some of the biggest challenges facing biology today. We’re amassing a world class team of engineers, scientists, team builders and problem solvers to tackle these challenges heads‑on. We’re passionate about developing the next generation technologies that will unravel the complexities of biology.

This is a unique opportunity to build,

be part of an exciting start‑up and be surrounded by good humans who are super capable, humble and down‑to‑earth.

We are currently hiring a Research Associate 1 for a temporary six-month project. The Research Associate 2 will be responsible for executing high-quality end‑to‑end workflows on the Cellanome R3200 platform in support of a variety of concierge to large‑scale commercial service contracts. The RA will utilize their cell biology experience to process living cells through multi‑day assays, and their molecular biology experience to convert those same cells into sequencing‑ready libraries.

Please note: this is a weekend inclusive schedule. All shifts for this role include one or two weekend days. Weekend coverage is a regular, ongoing part of the position.

Essential duties include but are not limited to the following:

• Process samples end to end: prepare and assess cells, set up and monitor instrument runs, oversee automated library prep, and perform final library QC.
• Follow SOPs precisely and document all steps, observations, and deviations in the LIMS in real time.
• Support troubleshooting with the lab development and other internal teams.
• Help improve the existing process by providing feedback and ideas to the LIMS and lab development team.
• Onboard and execute new processes transferred from the development team as the menu expands.
• Follow laboratory safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized work environment.
• Ability to lift up to 20 lbs for approximately 15% of typical working day.
• Ability to grasp with both hands; pinch with thumb and forefinger; turn with hand/arm; reach above shoulder height
• Ability to comply with personal protective equipment requirements.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in cell biology, molecular biology, or a related field.
• Experience working in a laboratory environment and hands‑on experience with cell culture techniques and assays.
• All shifts includeone or two weekend days. Candidates must be available toworka schedule that includes regular weekend coverage.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols precisely.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues.
• Demonstrated ability to perform the Essential Duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands‑on experience withNGS library preparation and/or mammalian cell culture; experience with both is strongly preferred.
• Experience withlaboratory automation and liquid‑handling platformsis a strong plus, particularly in combination with library preparation experience.

The estimated base salary range for this position is $70,000 - $77,000/year. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

What You Can Expect From Us

You’ll feel the energy when you walk in our door – we work hard, we have fun and we have ambitious plans to grow. Cellanome offers a comprehensive employment package that includes a competitive salary, generous stock options, great individual, and family health plans, a 401(k) and flexibility to balance work and life.

We embrace and celebrate the diversity of our employees. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, national origin, gender, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital or parental status, disability, veteran status, or other class protected by applicable law. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.