Research Associate

At HAYA Therapeutics, we are revolutionizing RNA-guided genome-targeting therapies to treat fibrosis, heart failure, and other serious diseases associated with aging. Our innovative platform leverages long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs)—key regulators within the "dark matter" of the genome—to develop first-in-class, highly specific therapies that modulate gene expression and restore cellular function.

About the role

Develop and execute cutting-edge cell and molecular biology assays in immunology models to identify novel long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) targets and advance pioneering therapeutic applications.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and differentiate primary immune cells and cell lines (including T-cells, NK cells, Macrophages, and B cells) to establish robust in vitro immunology models.
• Execute multi-color flow cytometry (FACS) runs to monitor immune cell identity markers and perform phenotypic characterization.
• Conduct immunoassays (ELISA/MSD) for cytokine profiling to evaluate cellular immune responses and target engagement.
• Execute ASO/siRNA compound screenings in primary immune cells to measure on-target gene knockdown efficiency via qPCR and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS).
• Perform high-quality library preparation for NGS platforms (including bulk RNA-seq, single-cell/nucleus snRNA-seq/snATAC-seq, and ChIP-seq/HiC) to map genome-wide chromatin and transcriptomic changes.
• Perform nucleic acid (RNA/DNA) and protein extractions to supply downstream molecular and biochemical analysis workstreams.
• Generate, analyze, and present experimental data packages to R&D teams and senior management to drive hit-to-lead program decisions.
• Maintain meticulous, real-time electronic lab notebook (ELN) records to ensure complete traceability, data integrity, and intellectual property protection.

Requirements

• Educational background (B.S. or M.S.) in Immunology, Molecular Biology, or a closely related biological science discipline.
• Practical, hands-on proficiency in culturing and manipulating primary immune cell populations, with specific expertise in human or mouse primary T-cell differentiation models.
• Demonstrated capability in RNA/DNA isolation and the execution and data analysis of quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR).
• Practical experience performing multi-color flow cytometry (FACS) for immunophenotyping and cell-state analysis.
• Proven technical ability to execute and analyze standard biochemical assays (ELISA or MSD) for protein quantification.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively, adapt quickly, and deliver results within a fast-paced biotech environment.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States (U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or valid work authorization).
• Requirement for full-time, on-site presence at the San Diego laboratory facility.

Qualifications

Desirable Experience & Specialized Expertise (Nice-to-Haves):

• Prior technical exposure to RNA-based modalities (ASOs or siRNAs) or long non-coding RNA biology.
• Technical experience in library construction across single-cell transcriptomics or epigenetic profiling technologies.
• Exposure to non-viral delivery methods (transfection or electroporation) within primary immune cell populations.

Skills

• Scientific Rigor & Execution: Focuses on generating high-quality, reproducible data while maintaining meticulous laboratory documentation standards.
• Local Problem-Solving & Autonomy: Proactively addresses technical assay challenges and optimizes experimental workflows independently.
• Collaborative Communication: Communicates experimental outcomes clearly across matrixed R&D teams and contributes positively to team goals.