Research Associate

About the role

BiomeSense is a start‑up revolutionizing human gut microbiome sampling and analysis, driving discovery, and enabling the development of microbiome‑based precision medicine. Our innovative approach integrates hardware that facilitates daily microbiome sampling as a routine exercise and AI‑driven analytics to unlock novel datasets for biomarker discovery.

Responsibilities

• Execute and optimize microbiology protocols supporting nucleic acid extraction, PCR, next‑generation sequencing (NGS) in a high‑throughput laboratory environment, following current SOPs carefully and maintaining speed without sacrificing work quality
• Collaborate closely with engineers and leadership to validate novel systems for microbial DNA stabilization, extraction, and purification
• Accurately coordinate intake and processing of large quantities of partner samples
• Demonstrate proactive & confident communication, clarifying priorities or questions before beginning work
• Design and conduct experiments with guidance from scientific leadership to retire technical risks, optimize protocols and contribute to product innovation
• Maintain rigorous documentation practices that allow work to be replicated and reviewed, and adhere to established quality management systems (e.g., GLP, design controls)
• Effectively communicate throughout the experimental cycle – give daily progress updates, collaborate on results, flag risks early and ask for assistance promptly

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, bioengineering, or a related field
• Hands‑on experience with core microbiology techniques, nucleic acid extraction, PCR, and NGS sample preparation
• Highly organized, proactive, and dependable, excited by a high ownership, collaborative, and fast‑paced setting
• Receptive to direction and constructive feedback, with a willingness to apply what you learn and support team priorities

Pay

$60K – $80K salary + 0.1% - 0.2% equity + benefits