Associate Scientist II – Molecular Biology & Biochemistry

About the role

As an Associate Scientist II you will join Ascidian’s fast‑moving gene‑therapy discovery team. Working closely with senior R&D scientists, you will design, execute and validate molecular biology and protein biochemistry assays that drive our drug development pipeline.

Key responsibilities

• Plan and perform a variety of biochemistry and molecular biology assays to support gene‑therapy programs.
• Maintain cell cultures and conduct cellular functional assays.
• Generate and analyze data, recording results in electronic lab notebooks.
• Communicate progress and findings clearly to the research team.
• Collaborate across a multidisciplinary team to advance scientific goals.

Required profile

• BS or MS in Biology, Biochemistry, or a related discipline.
• 1‑3 years of hands‑on laboratory research experience.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and work independently.
• Strong motivation for bench work and problem‑solving.
• Team‑oriented mindset with a solid work ethic.

Required skills

• DNA and RNA extraction.
• Primer design.
• RT‑qPCR and ddPCR.
• Protein extraction and Western blot.
• Enzyme activity assays.
• Cell culture and cell‑based functional assays.
• Molecular cloning (traditional, Golden Gate, Gibson).
• Use of molecular biology design tools such as Benchling and SnapGene.
• Basic experience with NGS workflows (plus).
• Data analysis and electronic lab notebook documentation.

What we offer

• Competitive salary range of $77,300 – $87,600 per year.
• Opportunity to work in a small, innovative biotechnology company.
• Access to cutting‑edge gene‑therapy research projects.