Senior Research Associate, Translational Biology

Job Title: Senior Research Associate

Reports To (Title): Scientist II

Department: Translational Biology

OBJECTIVES: 

We are seeking a highly motivated individual with experience in immunology translational biology. The Senior Research Associate (SRA) will be at the forefront of generating robust preclinical datasets to support the advancement of Trotana’s therapeutic candidates. The SRA will execute complex immune assays to characterize the activity of novel small molecule therapeutics and understand mechanism-of-action to guide key program decisions and clinical indication selection. The SRA will work under minimal supervision in close collaboration with other Scientists in our Translational Biology team.  

ACCOUNTABILITIES, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: 

• Design and execute immunology assays, including flow cytometry, ELISA/MSD, and cell-based functional assays using primary human and/or animal immune cells.
• Support MoA studies by characterizing the effect of selected compounds on immune cell phenotypes, activation states, and functional responses to therapeutic candidates.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (biology, bioinformatics, in vivo pharmacology) to integrate assay data into broader translational strategies.
• Maintain meticulous experimental records and contribute to data analysis, interpretation, and presentation for internal and external stakeholders.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies or assay platforms to enhance translational capabilities.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, study summaries, and regulatory documentation.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: 

• B.S. or M.S. in Immunology, Cell Biology, or related field, with 4 years of relevant laboratory experience in an academic or industry setting.
• Hands-on expertise in human PBMC/immune cell culture, multi-color flow cytometry, and functional immune assays.
• Experience handling human / animal blood or tissue samples to characterize immune cell phenotype and function.
• Strong data analysis skills using FlowJo, Prism, or similar software.
• A collaborative mindset, excellent communication skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• A passion for translational science and a curiosity-driven approach to understanding therapeutic mechanisms
• Experience with analytical and quantitative techniques such as flow cytometry, qPCR, qRT-PCR, ELISA, Nanodrop, absorbance/luminescence/fluorescence plate assays,
• Experience in data analysis, interpretation, and visualization, particularly with large data sets is required.
• Attention to safety, good laboratory practice, and good documentation practice are essential.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills are essential.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced startup environment and able to adjust workload and responsibilities based upon changing priorities.
• Able to manage multiple projects in parallel, including key participation on multi-disciplinary project teams.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

• Manual dexterity required to operate office equipment (i.e. computers, phones, etc.)   
• Carrying, handling and reaching for objects (up to 25 lbs)
• Onsite office, lab environment

Further Information:

Salary range: $90k-$110k

Trotana is a biotechnology company based in San Diego. In addition to a competitive compensation package with stock options, the company offers a comprehensive benefits package for our employees and their families, which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability insurance and a 401(k) plan. The company is an Equal Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. 

To be considered as an applicant, please submit your resume/CV referencing the specific position of interest to careers@trotana.com. Applicants whose qualifications and experience most closely match the requirements of the position will be reviewed.