Senior Research Associate, Stem Cell Engineering

Colossal Biosciences; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Flexible spending accounts (FSA)

Company matched 401(k) retirement plan

Paid parental leave at 100% salary

Job summary

Colossal Biosciences in Dallas, TX seeks a skilled stem cell engineer to support embryonic and pluripotent cell systems. You will collaborate closely with scientists to develop foundational stem cell platforms for cellular engineering.

The ideal candidate should have a degree in biological sciences, experience with embryonic and iPSC cultures, and knowledge of core molecular biology techniques. An inclusive workplace is offered with benefits including medical coverage and education reimbursement.

Qualifications

• Experience with maintenance and expansion of embryonic and iPSC cultures.
• Proficiency in core molecular biology techniques.
• Familiarity with stem cell reprogramming technologies.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to design and execution of experiments and techniques.
• Perform 2D and 3D cell culture with high technical accuracy.
• Conduct FACS, Western blotting, qPCR, and transfection assays.

Skills

Experience with primary embryonic and iPSC cultures

Core molecular biology techniques including qPCR

Familiarity with stem cell reprogramming technologies

Proficiency in electronic lab notebooks (ELNs)

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biological sciences

Tools

Benchling

Job description

Colossal Biosciences is seeking a skilled and motivated stem cell engineer to support our efforts in engineering embryonic and pluripotent cell systems for non-model species. This role will work closely with scientists across our mammalian de-extinction and conservation programs to optimize and apply protocols in embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cell culture, reprogramming, and 3D cell systems.

The Senior Research Associate will contribute to experimental planning, execution, and documentation, and play a key role in advancing foundational stem cell platforms for use in cellular engineering, embryo support, and translational biology across marsupial species. This role involves close collaboration with multiple internal teams and requires excellent communication, adaptability, and a strong team-oriented mindset.

This position is based on-site in Dallas, TX. Relocation assistance is available.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Contribute to the design, development, and execution of novel experiments, techniques, and protocols under the guidance of scientists, with growing autonomy in protocol optimization and troubleshooting.
• Perform and support 2D and 3D cell culture of primary, immortalized, ESC, and iPSC lines with high technical accuracy.
• Conduct and troubleshoot FACS, Western blotting, qPCR, immunostaining, transfection, and microscopy-based assays.
• Support stem cell reprogramming workflows, including those for non-model species, with adaptability and a willingness to learn species‑specific protocols.
• Maintain and optimize 3D culture systems, including spheroid and organoid models.
• Characterize and perform quality control of marsupial stem cell cultures, with training provided where needed.
• Document experimental work thoroughly and contribute to reports, presentations, and publications.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date digital lab records and follow team SOPs and quality standards.
• Support live cell maintenance, including occasional weekend work depending on feeding or culture requirements.

Skills and Abilities

Required

• Experience working with primary embryonic and iPSC cultures, including maintenance and expansion techniques.
• Proficiency in core molecular biology techniques, including qPCR, immunohistochemistry, colony picking, and stem cell passaging workflows.
• Familiarity with stem cell reprogramming technologies, particularly iPSC generation and validation.
• Experience using electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) and inventory management systems (e.g., Benchling) for data tracking and reagent management.

Preferred

• Experience with RNA extraction, RNA handling, and protein quantification assays (e.g., ELISA and Western blot).
• Experience with cell line derivation, propagation, and transfection methodologies, especially when following established protocols.
• Familiarity with sequence analysis software such as SnapGene or Geneious.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biological sciences, molecular and cell biology, bioengineering, biochemistry, developmental biology, or a related field.
• Prior experience as a Research Associate or Technician in an academic or biotechnology industry setting is a plus.
• Experience with non-model systems or comparative biology is welcomed but not required.

What Colossal Offers Full-Time Employees

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Excellent paid time off and company holidays
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
• Company matched 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid parental leave at 100% salary for up to 12 weeks
• Education reimbursement

Colossal is proud to be an equal employment opportunity workplace. We welcome people from all backgrounds as well as celebrate and support diversity. We are committed to providing an inclusive environment of mutual respect that is free from discrimination and harassment so everyone can thrive.

Search Firm Representatives: Colossal does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms. No fees will be paid for a hired candidate where no pre-existing agreement is in place. We handle most recruitment in-house.