Research Associate II - Functional Assays and Specificity

We are seeking a Research Associate II to design and perform cell-based assays as a member of the Functional Assays and Specificity team. Reporting to the Senior Scientist, this position contributes to early proof-of-concept of metagenomics-derived enzymes and screening, including high-throughput assay design, cell screening, and gene editing system optimization. You will have the opportunity to make a lasting impact as you partner with protein engineering, automation, and preclinical in order to push forward our novel gene editing technologies. This role will be based in Emeryville, California. How you’ll contribute:  Execute and optimize in-cell assays that determine the activity of novel proteins, including proteins for gene editing Establish high-throughput screening methods for detailed characterization of enzymatic activity using standard PCR, E. coli culture, and cloning techniques Analyze and interpret your data to inform future experiments using Jupyter notebooks and existing analysis software Keep accurate records of experiments and present findings to function and project team meetings What you bring: Bachelor’s degree in cell biology, molecular biology, or a related discipline required  At least two years of relevant experience in biotechnology industry  Demonstrated  scientific skills and knowledge of standard PCR, E. coli culture, and cloning techniques Experience with mammalian cell culture  Experience with standard molecular biology techniques  Effective oral and written communication, prioritization and organizational skills Personality attributes:   Able to quickly learn and adapt to new software tools (Google Suite, Slack) Highly collaborative, solutions oriented, and thrives in a fast-moving startup environment   California Pay Transparency Disclosure: This position is classified as an exempt position under the Federal Labor Standards Act.  The anticipated base salary range for this position will be $82,000 to $95,000 .  You will also be eligible to receive equity, bonuses, and a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits depending on the position offered. Please note that individual total compensation for this position will be determined at the Company’s sole discretion and may vary based on location, skill level, years and depth of relevant experience, and education.    About Metagenomi Metagenomi is a gene editing company committed to developing potentially curative therapeutics by leveraging a proprietary toolbox of next-generation gene editing systems to accurately edit DNA where current technologies cannot. Our metagenomics-powered discovery platform and analytical expertise reveal novel cellular machinery sourced from otherwise unknown organisms. We adapt and forge these naturally evolved systems into powerful gene editing systems that are ultra-small, extremely efficient, highly specific and have a decreased risk of immune response. These systems fuel our pipeline of novel medicines and can be leveraged by partners. Our goal is to revolutionize gene editing for the benefit of patients around the world. For more information, please visit https://metagenomi.co/.   What makes Metagenomi a unique place to work? We are passionate about developing technologies derived from microbial-rich ecosystems that have the power to enable therapeutic development and the potential to cure devastating disease. We have cultivated an amazing culture that values teamwork, curiosity, scientific rigor, and fun. We have a strong commitment to work/life balance, host a weekly employee happy hour and events, provide catered lunches and endless snacks, and more!  We offer competitive compensation including a market-benchmarked salary, annual target bonus, equity in an early-stage startup, and a comprehensive benefits plan, including 401(k) matching, a retirement safe harbor plan, and other perks.   At Metagenomi, we know that our people drive our success. We are an equal-opportunity employer and believe in and value diversity and inclusion. Metagenomi provides an open, collegial, and friendly work environment where we empower people and provide them with opportunities to develop their long-term careers. Metagenomi does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, age, physical or mental disability, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. Please note, all candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.   Applicants/Employees have rights under various State and Federal Employment Laws, including without limitation:   Family & Medical Leave Act    Equal Employment Opportunity Commission   Employee Polygraph Protection Act    California Family Rights Act    California Fair Employment and Housing Act   Notice to agencies: Our in-house Talent Acquisition Team manages all employment opportunities at Metagenomi. Agencies and independent recruiters must be approved as a vendor by Metagenomi’s Talent Acquisition team. To protect the interests of all parties, Metagenomi will not accept unsolicited resumes, profiles, or biographies. Any unsolicited resumes sent to Metagenomi will be considered referrals and the property of Metagenomi.