Research associate or Sr Research associate

Company Description

Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, El Capitan Biosciences comprises a team of passionate, versatile, and seasoned professionals. Our team's extensive research and industry backgrounds enable us to stay at the forefront of innovation.

At El Capitan Biosciences (ECB), our mission is to advance noninvasive diagnostics and monitoring by harnessing advanced machine learning algorithms and proprietary molecular methods to extract, quantify and interpret human RNA present in stool. By enabling whole transcriptome-sequencing of human transcripts shed from gut and immune cell populations, we aim to discover clinically meaningful biomarkers that reflect mucosal integrity, presence of disease, inflammatory activity and broader gastrointestinal health. Our multiplex RNA-based panels integrate signals across multiple pathways to deliver a comprehensive, actionable picture of disease biology, supporting improved diagnosis, monitoring, and overall understanding of gut health.

Company website: https://elcapitanbio.com/

Job Description

• This position is ideal for someone passionate about molecular biology and eager to grow their expertise in next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows and diagnostic assay development.
• This is a hands-on role supporting the evaluation, optimization, and advancement of cutting-edge NGS-based methodologies for diagnostic applications.
• Perform high-quality laboratory experiments and contribute to the generation of critical clinical testing data.
• Support internal and external collaborations by generating reliable data that informs technical and business decisions.
• Execute a wide range of molecular biology techniques to support NGS workflow optimization, including sample extraction, DNA purification, and quality control using PCR/RT-qPCR and BioAnalyzer/TapeStation.
• Prepare and optimize NGS library preparation workflows and support sequencing across platforms such as Illumina, Element Biosciences, and Oxford Nanopore.
• Assist in evaluating new NGS technologies, methods, and reagents under supervision.
• Prepare samples for sequencing runs and support the management and organization of sequencing outputs.
• Execute controlled experiments under the guidance of scientists, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and adherence to experimental plans.
• Participate in routine team meetings, providing updates on progress, observations, and experimental results.
• Contribute to troubleshooting efforts and generate data to support technical documentation and method development.
• Maintain detailed electronic lab notebooks and documentation to ensure reproducibility and data integrity.
• Work closely with R&D scientists and collaborators to support development timelines and project deliverables.

Qualifications

• (Research Associate) Requires a B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genomics, or related fields 1-4 years of professional experience or a Master's degree and 0-4 years of work experience.
• Proficiency in DNA/RNA purification, quantification (Qubit/NanoDrop), and primer design.
• Demonstrated experience in NGS library prep workflows.
• Skilled in electrophoretic QC using platforms such as BioAnalyzer, TapeStation, or Fragment Analyzer.
• Hands-on experience with PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR, and enzymatic assays.
• Proficient in cloning, gel electrophoresis, and general cell biology techniques within a BSL-2 environment.
• Basic understanding of NGS metrics (FastQ, alignment QC, etc.).
• Familiarity with Python or R for data visualization and analysis is a significant plus.
• With a high degree of attention and the ability to follow SOPs/experimental protocols in details
• Proven ability to juggle multiple experiments and prioritize tasks effectively in a fast-paced R&D startup environment.
• Strong communication skills and a team-oriented mindset for working across cross-functional departments.
• Hands-on experience with Methylation sequencing, single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) workflows is a significant plus.
• Basic theoretical knowledge of enzyme kinetics and molecular biology fundamentals.

Additional Information

• Base range: $71,000/year - $100,000/year. The final salary will be determined based on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and skill set.

• Financial security through competitive compensation, incentives, and retirement plan

• Health care and well-being programs including competitive medical, dental, vision & medical benefits.

• Generous paid time off including vacation, sick time, & holidays

• 401(k) retirement savings with a company match

• Other comprehensive voluntary benefits include but are not limited to pet insurance, life insurance, employee assistance program, discount programs, and many more.

• We continue to optimize our benefits & wellness programs as we grow our organization to make sure they meet our diverse workforce needs.

• The stability of a company with a record of strong financial performance year over year.