Space Biology Lab Scientist – DNA/RNA Sequencing

ANTA Biotech; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

ANTA Biotech in San Diego is seeking a hands-on molecular biology professional to develop and validate DNA/RNA extraction, sample processing, and sequencing-prep workflows that could one day run on a space station or field lab.

You will own end-to-end workflows from bench experiments to flight-ready protocols, collaborating with scientists and engineers in a fast-moving startup. A degree with 2+ years of lab experience plus aseptic technique are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, microbiology, genetics, chemistry, or similar.
• 2+ years of hands-on lab experience in academia, industry, or independent research.
• Experience with DNA/RNA extraction, purification, and quantification.
• Familiarity with PCR workflows and preparing samples for sequencing.
• Experience with aseptic technique and laboratory documentation.

Responsibilities

• Develop, execute, and optimize DNA/RNA extraction, sample preparation, and sequencing library prep experiments.
• Perform nucleic acid extraction, purification, quantification, quality assessment, and library preparation.
• Culture and process samples for workflow development and validation.
• Evaluate reagent formulations and workflow robustness through experiments.
• Document procedures, analyze data, and prepare technical reports and SOPs.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to troubleshoot and improve workflows.
• Maintain lab organization, inventory, and compliance with quality standards.

Skills

DNA/RNA extraction

PCR workflows

NGS sample prep

Molecular biology instrumentation

Aseptic technique

Documentation & reporting

Independent startup mindset

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology or related

2+ years lab experience

Tools

Qubit

NanoDrop

TapeStation

Bioanalyzer

Job description

ANTA Biotech in San Diego is seeking a hands-on molecular biology professional to develop and validate DNA/RNA extraction, sample processing, and sequencing-prep workflows that could one day run on a space station or field lab.

You will own end-to-end workflows from bench experiments to flight-ready protocols, collaborating with scientists and engineers in a fast-moving startup. A degree with 2+ years of lab experience plus aseptic technique are required.