Research Associate, Discovery Biology

About the role

Assembly Bio is seeking a Research Associate to join its Discovery Biology team in South San Francisco, reporting to the Senior Scientist, Discovery Biology. The role works closely with the drug discovery team to conduct and oversee biological testing of new inhibitors. It is a regular, full-time, exempt position.

Key responsibilities

• Execute in vitro experiments to identify and characterize compounds with biological activity, especially viral infection inhibitors
• Develop, optimize and validate biochemical and cell-based assays supporting ongoing discovery projects
• With a senior research member, make detailed observations, analyze data and interpret results
• Support multiple projects and learn new techniques for exploratory discovery work
• Present experimental findings, assay results and scientific rationale to internal project teams
• Use data analysis software and MS Office applications
• Manage compound inventories and assay data
• Take part in general lab maintenance, including reagent preparation, supply ordering and equipment upkeep

Required profile

• Sc.D., M.S. or equivalent degree in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Virology or a related scientific discipline
• At least two years of relevant experience in industry or academia, with a preference for drug discovery experience
• Comfortable working in a BSL2 setting with potentially infectious agents, with demonstrated expertise in good laboratory practices and BSL2 standards
• Clear ability to summarize findings, interpret data, troubleshoot and present scientific insights
• Motivated, proactive cell biologist and/or molecular virologist who thrives in a fast-paced environment

Required skills

• Assay development, cell biology, virology and molecular biology techniques (sterile technique, mammalian cell maintenance, cytotoxicity, virus production and titration, transporter and reporter assays, antiviral activity assays, ELISA, RT-qPCR, molecular cloning, transfection, Western blot)
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, molecular cloning programs, GraphPad Prism and scientific informatics tools