Research Associate, Screening Platform at Aether Biomachines

Menlo Park, California, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

17 Jul, 26

Salary

90000.0

Posted On

18 Apr, 26

Experience

2 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Molecular cloning, Protein expression, Protein purification, Assay development, High-throughput screening, Liquid handling, PCR, Bacterial cell culture, SDS-PAGE, Western blot, Chromatography, Data analysis, Python, SOP documentation, Laboratory instrumentation, DNA amplification

Industry

Biotechnology Research

Description

ENGINEER THE FUTURE OF PROTEIN INNOVATION Aether Biomachines is building the future of protein engineering with AI. Our proprietary Protein Function Model, Aetheron, unlocks entirely new classes of proteins that power breakthrough applications - from recycling plastics and breaking down “forever chemicals” to creating next-generation materials that 3D print faster and stronger than anything on the market. With real-world impact across aerospace, defense, clean energy, and beyond, Aether is where cutting-edge science meets world-changing opportunity. MISSION As a member of Aether’s platform team, you will operate at the very top of our discovery funnel - where every experiment directly influences what comes next. Your work in molecular cloning, protein production, and assay development won’t just enable rapid iteration; it will shape the trajectory of all our discovery programs. This role is ideal for someone motivated by seeing their contributions drive immediate progress and create lasting impact on the company’s success. CORE RESPONSIBILITIES Molecular Cloning & DNA Preparation * Perform advanced cloning using modern high-efficiency techniques. * Carry out DNA amplification, purification, and QC with rigor. Protein Expression & Purification * Express recombinant proteins in prokaryotic and cell-free expression systems. * Purify proteins using affinity methods (e.g., Ni-NTA, anti-FLAG) and maintain high quality standards. * Prepare reagents and operate lab instrumentation reliably. Protein Characterization * Assess purity and yield using SDS-PAGE, western blot, UV/Vis, and protein quantification assays. Assay Development & High-Throughput Screening * Set up and execute plate-based assays (fluorescence, luminescence). * Operate and maintain automation platforms (liquid handlers, plate readers). * Document, analyze, and report experimental data to drive rapid iteration. Laboratory Operations & Continuous Improvement * Follow SOPs to ensure reproducibility and quality. * Collaborate across teams to troubleshoot, optimize, and streamline workflows. * Maintain clear records, inventory, and strong communication in a fast-paced environment. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS * Hands-on experience with: * Automated liquid handling platforms * PCR, RCA, and molecular cloning * DNA/protein electrophoresis and purification * Bacterial cell culture and aseptic technique * Recombinant protein expression and sequence analysis * Buffer/media preparation * Chromatography methods * Familiarity with common lab equipment (plate readers, centrifuges, UV/Vis, incubators, sonicators, gel imagers). * Strong organizational skills for managing samples, supplies, and records. * Competence with data analysis tools (Excel, PowerPoint); coding familiarity (e.g., Python) is a plus. * Ability to follow and draft SOPs, and communicate results effectively (verbal, written, visual). NOTE Aether Biomachines is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you’re excited about this role but don’t meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. The pay range for this role is $70,000 - $90,000 per year + equity, with final compensation based on skills and experience. Employment at Aether is at-will, and reasonable accommodations are available upon request. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. At this time, Aether is not sponsoring visas for this position.

Responsibilities

The role involves performing molecular cloning, protein expression, and purification to support discovery programs. You will also develop and execute high-throughput assays while maintaining laboratory operations and documentation standards.