Jobs · Engineering · California

Research Associate-II/Senior Research Associate, Histology (6-Month Contract)

SonoThera · South San Francisco, CA · 2 mo ago
On-siteEngineering$42–$48/hrContract

About the Company

SonoThera is a venture-backed genetic medicine company advancing ultrasound-mediated, non-viral targeted therapies to unlock the full potential of genetic medicines. Our platform is designed to overcome key limitations in the field, enabling precise, redosable delivery across a broad range of diseases with high unmet need. Headquartered in South San Francisco, SonoThera brings together a world-class, interdisciplinary team focused on translating breakthrough science into transformative therapies.

About the Role

The Bioanalytical group at SonoThera is seeking to hire an enthusiastic (Senior) Research Associate to support gene therapy drug development by performing histological procedures. We seek candidates who think critically and have the desire and ability to learn new techniques. This position requires adaptability and an ability to perform at a high level in a fast-paced environment. This is a 6-month contract position at 40 hours per week, with the possibility of extension or conversion to full-time employment. The role is 100% on-site and requires working from the office Monday through Friday, reporting to the Sr. Director, Vivarium Operations & Bioanalytics.

Responsibilities

  • Process, embed, and section FFPE and fresh frozen tissue samples.
  • Perform routine and specialized staining, including H&E, PAS, Trichrome, ISH, IHC, and IF.
  • Image stained slides and support qualitative and quantitative assessment of results.
  • Track sample accessioning, inventory, and chain of custody in the electronic lab notebook.
  • Document methods and results in SOPs and study records, and contribute to assay optimization.
  • Partner with teams across the organization to receive mouse, rat, and NHP tissue samples.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in biology, biomedical science, or a related field, with at least 2 years of relevant laboratory experience.
  • Advanced proficiency in FFPE tissue processing, embedding, and sectioning, and in mounting and cryosectioning of fresh frozen samples for a variety of tissues and species.
  • Experience performing routine stains such as H&E, PAS, and Masson’s Trichrome.
  • Experience performing specialized stains such as IHC and ISH using autostainers such as Leica Bond RX, Ventana, or similar. Optimizing antibodies for IHC/IF is a plus.
  • Experience using imaging platforms such as VS200, 3dhistec P150/P250, Aperio Imagescope, Revolve, or similar.
  • Experience using image analysis platforms such as HALO, Visiopharm, or similar is a plus.
  • Training or hands-on experience in sample management workflows.
  • Exceptional organizational skills including SOP documentation and record-keeping using ELN platforms such as Benchling.
  • Demonstrated commitment to laboratory safety and regulatory compliance.
  • Strong communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
  • Industry experience preferred.
  • Experience preparing slides for DNA and RNA analysis (RNAscope, Visium, etc.) is a plus.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $42.00 to $48.00 USD per hour. This range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on factors such as individual education, experience, tenure, skills, abilities, and internal equity.

Benefits

  • Access to a 24-hour onsite gym.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Equity and ownership in a fast-growing company.
  • Commuting stipend based on geographical location.
  • 401(k) match.
  • Flexible time off policy for all full-time employees.

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