Research Associate/Senior Research Associate, Nucleic Acid Analytics at SonoThera

Location: South San Francisco, CA

Status: Regular Full-Time

Reports To: Associate Director, Gene Therapy

About SonoThera:

SonoThera is a venture capital-backed early-stage biopharmaceutical company developing ultra-sound-guided non-viral targeted gene therapies to treat multiple diseases of high unmet need. The Gene Therapy group at SonoThera uses a collaborative, interdisciplinary, and forward-thinking approach to solving many of the current challenges facing genetic medicine discovery and drug development. SonoThera is headquartered in South San Francisco, CA.

Job Description:

The Gene Therapy group at SonoThera is seeking to hire a Research Associate/Senior Research Associate to become an integral part of the gene therapy drug development effort. We seek candidates who think critically and have the desire and ability to learn new techniques. This position requires adaptability and an ability to perform at a high level in a fast-paced environment. A qualified candidate will have broad technical experience in preparation of samples for RNA and DNA analyses.  In this position, you will play an integral role in characterizing gene therapy vectors delivery efficiency in diverse preclinical models You will develop and optimize protocols for ddPCR and NGS based DNA and RNA analytics including single cell analysis. 

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in the biological sciences (e.g. Genetics, Biochemistry, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Physiology, or related field) with 2-5 years of relevant postgraduate research experience an industry setting. 

• Creativity and the ability to work within an interdisciplinary team to achieve technical and corporate milestones. 

• Strong verbal and written communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. 

Technical Requirements and Skills:

• Proven track record of running CN/DG analysis (DNA extraction from animal tissues,  ddPCR) and RNA expression analysis (RNA extraction from animal tissues, RT-ddPCR). 

• Extensive experience developing and optimizing new ddPCR assays, including primer/probe design and testing. 

• Previous experience using high-throughput methods for DNA/RNA extraction and ddPCR setup including robotic liquid handlers (i.e. Agilent Bravo) and plate-based extractions (i.e. QIAGEN 96 kits). 

• Expertise in sample and library preparation for bulk-tissue RNA-seq, scRNA-seq, snRNA-seq. 

• Experience in library sequencing using Illumina platforms (i.e. NextSeq2000). 

• Experience in data analysis (i.e. GraphPad Prism), as well as slide preparation and presentation. 

• Ideal candidate will have familiarity with ELNs (i.e. Benchling), qPCR, Olink-based proteomics, MSD, protein isolation, Western blot, histology analysis. 

• Strong record-keeping and organizational skills. 

Compensation: The salary range for this temporary position is $95,000.00 to $125,000.00 USD hourly. This salary range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on various factors, including, without limitation, individual education, experience, tenure, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data, including potential adjustments for geographic location.

At SonoThera, we'll give you the tools to feel healthy, happy and secure.

Equity and ownership in a fast-growing company.

Access to a 24-hour gym

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision

Commuting stipend based on your geographical location

401(k) Match: SonoThera offers a dollar-for-dollar match

All full-time employees are eligible for our flexible time off policy

Equal Opportunity for Diversity & Inclusion

SonoThera provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.