Research Associate

Oath is a leading microbial sciences company that utilizes natural soil biology to offer innovative solutions to critical planetary challenges—the climate crisis and the shift to sustainable agriculture. We envision a world where these crises are reversed by replenishing Earth's microbiomes. Our solution is deployed globally, improving farmer livelihoods with teams in Rwanda, Europe, the United States, and beyond. Joining Oath means becoming part of a collaborative network that prioritizes high-quality scientific work alongside trained scientists, commercial teams, and a broad partner ecosystem.

About the role

We are seeking a Research Associate to join our dynamic, fast-paced, and supportive R&D team. In this role, you will work under the guidance of the Microbial Curation Scientist and other senior team members to support day-to-day microbial strain cultivation, preservation, and documentation activities. This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their career to build hands-on laboratory skills, learn established microbiology and molecular biology techniques, and gain exposure to LIMS-based data management while contributing to the development of novel microbial consortia products.

Responsibilities

• Support the generation and curation of high-fidelity cryopreserved bacterial libraries from environmental isolates, managing archival and working cell banks in accordance with standardized operating procedures.
• Execute routine analytical checks to monitor the clonal purity, viability, and metabolic vitality of microbial stocks and starting materials, reporting to the Microbial Curation Scientist.
• Perform molecular biology workflows, including nucleic acid extractions, PCR, and gel electrophoresis, to facilitate taxonomic classification and ensure culture integrity.
• Coordinate the preparation and logistical tracking of samples designated for external DNA analysis with CROs and specialized service providers.
• Assist in the design and implementation of both in vitro and in planta experimental assays under the supervision of senior R&D staff.
• Operationalize laboratory automation and tracking systems, including automated capping/decapping hardware and liquid handling platforms, to optimize workflow efficiency.
• Maintain rigorous data integrity through the accurate and timely entry, maintenance, and retrieval of experimental information within the LIMS environment.
• Adhere strictly to SOPs while proactively identifying and communicating potential process improvements to the broader scientific team.
• Manage laboratory infrastructure, including consumables inventory management, organizational maintenance, and routine equipment upkeep.
• Ensure comprehensive documentation of all laboratory activities, experimental observations, and resulting data packages.
• Facilitate transparent communication of project milestones, technical inquiries, and operational bottlenecks to the curation team and senior leadership.
• Partner across the R&D organization to maintain robust sample tracking, chain-of-custody protocols, and general laboratory operational excellence.
• Oversee the compliant preparation and shipment of biological materials to external partners, ensuring adherence to all regulatory packaging and labeling requirements.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree (or equivalent experience) in Microbiology, Microbial Ecology, Plant Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related field.
• 1-3 years of relevant laboratory research experience.
• Foundational knowledge of microbiological techniques, including aseptic handling, pipetting, cultivation, and media preparation, acquired via coursework or research.
• Reliable source of transportation.

Preferred

• Prior academic or research exposure to nucleic acid extractions and PCR-based analytical methods.
• Previous experience working within an industrial R&D laboratory setting.
• Experience with the cultivation of environmental microbial isolates, including bacteria or fungi.
• Familiarity with laboratory information management tools or digital data systems.
• Strong interest in agricultural biotechnology, plant-microbe interactions, and environmental sustainability.
• Experience maintaining laboratory safety standards and performing routine equipment upkeep.

Pay

$70,000 - $86,000

Schedule

Full-time, non-exempt position in Vacaville, CA, 5 days a week.