What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Associate/Scientist position at Aptus Biosciences, LLC?
Aptus Biosciences LLC is a small, fast-growing biotech startup company focused on developing solutions for unmet needs in medical diagnostics in neurology, oncology, cardiology, and infectious diseases. The company’s innovative platform utilises chemically modified DNA-based affinity ligands, called aptamers, poised to revolutionise early diagnosis and disease prognosis. We are using aptamer reagents to develop assays, rapid diagnostic tests, and simple-to-use, laboratory-developed blood-based tests to address unmet needs in medical diagnostics. Our technology accelerates biomedical innovation, enabling next-generation solutions that extend the frontiers of science and medicine.
Research Associate/Scientist
We seek a “Research Associate/Scientist” to contribute to aptamer discovery projects. As a research associate, you will perform and contribute to various processes leading to aptamer selection, including preparing and testing reagents, targets, and samples. You will be expected to possess the technical abilities to assist and complete projects on time. You are expected to work with other team members on a daily basis to meet company goals. Additional requirements will include understanding the basics of biochemistry, molecular biology, and proteomics; handling sensitive materials; performing statistical analysis of results; and writing scientific reports. Aptus Biosciences is an E-Verify company. This position will report to the CEO.
Key Job Responsibilities
- Prepare samples for NGS libraries, quality control, and quantify
- Perform primer extensions, enzymatic manipulation, and synthesis
- DNA quantification and gel analysis
- Protein quantification and gel analysis
- Real-time PCR and sample processing, data analysis
- Perform binding affinity measurement of aptamers, determine dissociation, and kinetic rate constants
- Perform non-specific target binding and specificity measurements
- Contribute to laboratory-developed biomarker quantification assays
- Contribute to Lateral Flow Assay (LFA) development for biomarker detection
- Generate and maintain laboratory data and records
- Write reports and present scientific data in internal and external meetings
Qualifications and Experience
- Bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degree with 0-3 years of experience in the biotech industry
- Broad experience and knowledge of enzymatic DNA or RNA synthesis, primer design, primer extension, PCR, RT-PCR, qPCR
- Working experience with Illumina MiSeq NGS library prep, QC, and running the MiSeq instrument
- NGS data analysis, multiple sequence alignment, and copy number analysis
- Recombinant protein expression and purification are preferable
- Oligo synthesis, HPLC, and gel purification experience is preferable
- Familiarity with biomarker measurements using Luminex, Quanterix, or MSD platforms
- Experience developing new methods, protocols, and SOPs
- Problem-solving ability, design, execute, and analyse data independently
- Strong communication and presentation skills, including technical writing and reporting
- Proficient in MS Office applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, GraphPad Prism
Work Environment
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative, and shared space environment
- Potential to work with biological samples, including serum, plasma, or CSF
- Ability to work in a laboratory setting wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as a lab coat, gloves, and safety glasses
- Ability to work in a shared core laboratory equipment facility
Compensation & Benefits
- Exempt employee, commensurate with experience
- Three weeks paid time off (PTO) annually
Equal Opportunity Employer
Aptus Biosciences recruits team members based on who you are as an individual — regardless of race, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, lifestyle, age, national origin, religion, or physical ability
How to apply
Interested candidates with a degree in Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Biology, or a related field should apply by email with at least three references (contact details, email/phone) to bgawande@aptusbio.com