Research Associate II - Senior Research Associate I, Platform Discovery

Profluent is an AI-first protein design company. Founded in 2022, we develop deep generative models to design and validate novel, functional proteins to revolutionize biomedicine. Based in Emeryville, CA, we are backed by leading investors including Altimeter Capital, Bezos Expeditions, Spark Capital, Insight Partners, Air Street Capital, AIX Ventures, and Convergent Ventures, and have raised over $150M to date.

We are seeking a motivated and creative Research Associate to join our Platform Discovery team. You will work closely with more senior team members to design, execute, and optimize high throughput screening campaigns to support the discovery, characterization, and optimization of our novel gene editing tools. Your work will be critical for enabling new therapeutic opportunities.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with molecular cloning, mammalian cell culture techniques, NGS library preparation, and lab automation. This is an excellent opportunity to work cross-functionally with a diverse team of experts across AI and machine learning, protein design, cell biology, and gene editing.   

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and optimize robust molecular and/or cell-based assays to measure on- and off-target activity of novel gene editing systems using a combination of targeted and genome-wide analytical methods
• Own execution of NGS-based screening workflows, including library preparation, assay QC, sequencing submission coordination, and final data quality assessment
• Partner with High Throughput Operations to build and optimize robust workflows to improve assay reproducibility, throughput, and operational robustness
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and clearly communicate findings to support data-driven prioritization and critical go/no-go decisions
• Maintain organized tracking of physical samples, reagents, consumables, and assay materials to support efficient high-throughput screening operations, including inventory management, sample traceability, and procurement coordination

Qualifications

• BS or MS in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field
• 0-5 years of academic or biotechnology industry research experience
• Extensive hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques and mammalian cell culture
• Experience with molecular or cell-based assay development and execution, employing qPCR/dPCR, NGS, and/or flow cytometry techniques
• Hands-on experience and/or a deep understanding of key concepts and challenges related to genetic medicine, gene editing systems, DNA repair, etc.  

Preferences (but not required)

• Experience with process automation and workflow scaling to support high-throughput molecular biology, cell-based assay, or NGS screening workflows, ideally in a biotechnology or industry research setting.
• Experience using Benchling as an electronic lab notebook and laboratory information management systems to document experiments, track sample metadata, and manage workflows.
• Experience operating automated liquid handling workflows for molecular biology, NGS library preparation, cell-based assays, or high-throughput screening applications

What We Offer

• High-growth opportunity with meaningful impact on the future of protein design
• Competitive compensation package with equity participation
• 401(k) with a strong employer match
• Comprehensive benefits including health/dental/vision insurance
• Generous PTO policy and commitment to work-life balance
• Professional development opportunities in a cutting-edge field at the intersection of AI and biology

Profluent Bio, Inc is an equal opportunity employer promoting diversity and inclusion in the workspace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding), genetic information, taking or requesting statutorily protected leave, or any other basis protected by law.

Work Authorization Requirement

Applicants must have ongoing work authorization in the United States that does not require employer sponsorship. Sponsorship will not be provided now or at any time in the future for this position.

Employment Eligibility Verification

Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired must verify their identity and work eligibility and complete the required employment verification form upon hire.