Research Associate, Zebrafish Virus Infection Biology (Balla Group - Biohub SF)

Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Network; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

Join an innovative research institute focused on groundbreaking biological studies. As a Research Associate, you'll work with a dynamic team to explore virus infection biology using zebrafish models. This role offers the opportunity to develop cutting-edge techniques and contribute to significant advancements in understanding viral dynamics and immune responses. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, this organization provides a supportive environment for your professional growth and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. Be part of a collaborative effort to tackle complex scientific challenges and make a meaningful impact in the field of biology.

Benefits

Healthcare

Life and Disability Insurance

Commuter Subsidies

Family Planning

Childcare Stipends

401(k) Matching

Flexible Time Off

Parental Leave

Ongoing Learning Opportunities

Qualifications

• 1 year of molecular biology lab experience including nucleic acid isolation.
• Experience working with zebrafish and/or tissue culture.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deploy genetically modified viruses in zebrafish models.
• Analyze viral infection dynamics to understand immune responses.

Skills

Molecular Biology

PCR

Cloning

Bacterial Culture

RNA Virus Replication

Organizational Skills

Communication Skills

Teamwork

Attention to Detail

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Life Science

Tools

Python

Widefield Microscopy

Confocal Microscopy

Job description

Research Associate, Zebrafish Virus Infection Biology (Balla Group - Biohub SF)

The Chan Zuckerberg Biohub San Francisco (CZ Biohub SF) (https://www.czbiohub.org/sf/) is an independent nonprofit research institute that unites Stanford, UC Berkeley, and UC San Francisco into a collaborative engine for technology and discovery. CZ Biohub SF supports engineers, data scientists, and biomedical researchers to explore disease mechanisms and develop diagnostics and therapies. Our core values include scholarly excellence, disruptive innovation, hands-on engineering, collaboration, open communication, inclusiveness, and opportunity for all.

Our Vision

• Address large scientific challenges beyond conventional environments
• Enable investigators to pursue innovative, high-risk ideas
• Develop technologies to support research at our partner institutions and beyond

Diversity of thought and perspective drives our innovation and excellence. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all colleagues feel valued and contribute meaningfully.

The Opportunity

The Balla group is assembling an interdisciplinary team with expertise in molecular biology, microscopy, virology, and immunology to study virus infection using zebrafish as a model. We seek an energetic, curious, and team-oriented Research Associate to support our work on organismal virus infection biology. The role involves developing and deploying genetically modified viruses in zebrafish and tissue culture models to analyze viral infection dynamics. These tools will aid our efforts to understand and engineer immune responses to viruses and inflammation. The position is based in San Francisco initially, with a planned transition to Redwood City in two years.

You will

• Hold a Bachelor's degree in a life science with at least 1 year of molecular biology lab experience (including nucleic acid isolation, PCR, cloning, bacterial culture)
• Have 1 year of experience working with zebrafish and/or tissue culture
• Be familiar with techniques for characterizing RNA virus replication (qRT-PCR, in situ hybridization, TCID50, plaque assay, etc.)
• Demonstrate excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Be a dedicated team player capable of working independently
• Possess strong verbal and written communication skills

You have

• At least 1 year of aquaculture experience
• An interest in biology, animal husbandry, or related fields
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work well in a team and independently

Nice to have

• Python programming knowledge
• Experience with widefield/confocal microscopy
• Hands-on experience with viruses

Compensation

The San Francisco base salary range is $52,000–$77,000 for Research Associate I and $67,000–$99,000 for Research Associate II. New hires typically start at the lower end, with potential for growth. Actual placement depends on skills and experience evaluated during the interview process.

What We Provide

• Resources for innovative research in biology and disease
• A collaborative environment with diverse expertise
• Access to facilities at Stanford, UC Berkeley, UC San Francisco, and partner organizations
• Competitive salary and benefits

If your experience doesn’t match every qualification but you’re interested, we encourage you to apply as you may be a great fit for this or other roles.

Our benefits include healthcare, life and disability insurance, commuter subsidies, family planning, childcare stipends, 401(k) matching, flexible time off, and parental leave. We promote career development and scholarly excellence through ongoing learning opportunities.

The CZ Biohub Network is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We consider all qualified applicants regardless of age, race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or other protected statuses, in accordance with applicable law.