Research Associate I/II

Tierra Biosciences, a venture capital backed life science company, has pioneered a novel high-throughput protein production platform that produces hundreds of custom proteins on-demand. Our platform can make proteins faster than other technologies and has the potential to onboard novel methods quickly. We use cell-free synthetic biology to bring the power and throughput of genomics technologies into protein production. Our diverse range of customers engage in the creation of pioneering products in therapeutics, chemistry, biotechnology, agriculture, and food. At Tierra Biosciences, we play a pivotal role in expediting our customers' scientific exploration, enabling them to swiftly transform ideas into market-ready, life-changing innovations.

As a member of the Tierra Research and Development team, the Research Associate I/II will be responsible for performing laboratory duties to support both our R&D and our Tierra Protein Platform activities. You will perform a variety of routine experimental protocols and procedures to support the objectives of Tierra research projects. You will assist with general laboratory activities, including the creation of reagents, stocking of supplies, and the maintenance and operation of laboratory automation and equipment. You will keep accurate and detailed records of experiments and results as well as observe safety standards and procedures. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in biological sciences, excellent organizational skills, high energy, and a keen interest in supporting scientific research.

Requirements

Job Duties:

• Assist scientists in the design and execution of research experiments.
• Produce custom proteins and follow work procedures according to GMPs and SOPs to meet production schedules.
• Prepare biological reagents and materials to assist with R&D and production activities.
• Assist with fermentation processes.
• Perform tasks relating to the continuous improvement of the Tierra Protein Platform process.
• Perform tasks relating to production, operations, and quality control.
• Perform tasks relating to the technology transfer of R&D innovations to the Tierra Protein Platform production.
• Participate in team meetings and communicate experimental process with internal teams.
• Assist with the receiving and stocking of inventory.

Position Requirements:

• BA/BS degree in a Biological discipline
• 2+ years of industry experience in a biological research laboratory or related field.
• Demonstrated experience of standard laboratory procedures, biological equipment, and record keeping.
• Proficient in MS Office Suite including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Good organizational skills, flexibility in thinking and approach, and self-directed.
• Ability to manage time effectively and work both independently and collaboratively.
• Ability to conduct routine laboratory experiments & reagent preparation with minimal direction

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with programming & using laboratory automation.
• Previous experience with technology transfer, operations, sustaining engineering, or quality control.
• Previous experience with fermentation.
• Familiarity with protein biochemistry.
• Proficiency with Python and Excel.

Benefits

Tierra offers competitive salaries, a good equity program, and benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, vacation and sick time off, and 401(k). Legal authorization to work in the US is required. We are not able to sponsor individuals for employment visas for this job. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment verification form upon hire. This position is based in our San Leandro, CA location.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

The expected base salary range this role is $68,000 - $100,000. Compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including experience, qualifications and internal equity.

Qualification

Bachelor's Degree