Senior Research Associate – Single B Cell Screening & Functional Antibody Discovery

KisoJi Biotech is advancing next-generation antibody therapeutics through the integration of proprietary transgenic heavy chain-only antibody (HCAb) platforms, AI-guided discovery, functional screening technologies, and high-throughput single-cell screening systems.

We are currently expanding our antibody discovery capabilities and are seeking two Senior Research Associates to lead and support our single B cell screening and functional antibody discovery workflows using advanced technologies including the CellCelector platform and potentially droplet microfluidics-based screening systems.

This is a highly hands-on laboratory role focused on screening plasma B cells following immunization campaigns to identify antibodies with desirable binding and/or functional activity. The position will involve close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams spanning molecular biology, protein engineering, AI-guided discovery, and functional assay development.

The successful candidates will thrive in a fast-paced biotech environment, demonstrate strong experimental rigor, work independently, and contribute scientifically to the development of next-generation antibody discovery technologies.

Position: Senior Research Associate

Site: San Deigo, California

Department: Assay Development

Responsibilities

The Senior Research Associate position entails working independently and collaboratively under the direction of the department head to:

• Plan and execute single B cell and plasma cell screening workflows following animal immunization campaigns
• Operate and optimize the CellCelector platform for single-cell isolation, imaging, clone recovery, and antibody discovery applications
• Develop and execute screening assays for:
• Antigen binding
• Cell-based functional activity
• Support the implementation and optimization of droplet microfluidics-based screening technologies for high-throughput functional antibody discovery
• Perform mammalian cell culture and support functional screening workflows using reporter assays, flow cytometry, imaging systems, and cell-based assays
• Troubleshoot methods, improve workflows, and contribute to the development of new antibody discovery technologies
• Maintain accurate experimental records and clearly communicate results through reports, presentations, and team discussions
• Assist in SOP development, workflow standardization, and laboratory organization
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams across discovery, assay development, computational biology, and protein engineering
• Participate in project planning, prioritization, and technology evaluation discussions

Essential Qualifications

• M.Sc. in Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or a related field with at least 5–7 years of industry experience
• Minimum 3 years of hands-on experience in antibody discovery or single-cell screening workflows
• Experience with mammalian cell culture and cell-based functional assays
• Experience operating advanced screening or cell handling instrumentation such as:
• CellCelector
• FACS / flow cytometry systems
• High-content imaging platforms
• Microfluidics systems
• Experience with one or more of the following:
• Single B cell screening
• Functional antibody screening
• Microfluidics workflows
• Mammalian display
• Reporter-based functional assays
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with the ability to independently optimize assays and workflows
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently while effectively collaborating within cross-functional teams
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Legally authorized to work in Canada

Assets

The following experience would be considered highly desirable:

• Experience with droplet microfluidics systems for single-cell or functional screening  
• Experience with flow cytometry assay development and cell sorting
• Experience with reporter assays, imaging-based screening, or phenotypic screening
• Familiarity with automation and high-throughput screening systems
• Experience in oncology or GPCR-focused therapeutic discovery programs

What We Offer

Benefits Package Includes

• Health and Dental Insurance Plans
• Paid Vacation and Holidays

Incentive Programs Include

• Training & Development Programs / Courses
• Annual Performance Reviews with Yearly Bonuses
• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge antibody discovery technologies
• Exposure to advanced AI-guided therapeutic discovery platforms

Salary

The salary range for this position is $120,000–140,000 USD, depending on experience, technical expertise, and qualifications. Compensation will take into account internal equity, work location, and relevant industry experience.

KisoJi Biotech is a collaborative and science-driven organization where innovation, teamwork, and scientific rigor are highly valued. Together, we believe we can help shape the future of antibody therapeutics and contribute meaningfully to the development of transformative medicines.

Thank you for your interest. Please send your cover letter addressing your fit for this position along with your CV to:

contact@kbimail.com

Please indicate the position, department, and location you are applying for. We will only consider applications submitted to our contact email address. Candidates should be prepared to provide references and a detailed skills inventory upon request.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.