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Research Associate I, Konermann Lab

Palo Alto, CA

About Arc Institute

Arc Institute is an independent nonprofit research organization at the interface of artificial intelligence and biology, working to accelerate scientific progress and understand the root causes of complex diseases. Founded in 2021 and based in Palo Alto, Arc partners with Stanford University, UC Berkeley, and UC San Francisco.

Unlike academia, our scientists have long-term funding and industry-like resources. Unlike industry, they're free to pursue high-risk, long-term research without commercial pressures. Arc's Technology Centers and Core Investigator labs work side by side, integrating experimental and computational biology under one roof to tackle problems neither could solve alone.

Our two Institute Initiatives reflect this model in action:

  • Virtual Cell Initiative: Building a full-stack virtual cell model to identify disease mechanisms and nominate drug targets,  accelerating the path from biological insight to clinical trials.
  • Alzheimer's Disease Initiative: Mapping the genes, pathways, and environmental factors behind Alzheimer's disease to develop drug candidates that address root causes.

More than 300 Arconauts work together at our Palo Alto headquarters, backed by substantial long-term philanthropic funding.

About the position

We are seeking a Research Associate I to join the Konermann Laboratory at the Arc Institute. In this position, you will provide essential laboratory support while gaining comprehensive training in lab operations, management, and scientific best practices. You will work closely with our lab manager to support daily operations, maintain high standards of safety and organization, and assist with ongoing research activities. This position is ideal for someone seeking hands-on experience in laboratory operations while contributing to cutting-edge scientific research.

About you

  • You are naturally proactive with a strong work ethic. You don't wait to be told what needs to be done—you anticipate needs, take initiative, and take pride in maintaining organized, efficient lab spaces. You understand that excellent research depends on meticulous attention to detail and consistent execution.
  • You have a natural affinity for process improvement and optimization. You're constantly thinking about how things can be done better, faster, or more efficiently. You enjoy analyzing workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing solutions that benefit the entire team.
  • You are collaborative and reliable. You thrive in team environments, take initiative to support others, and can be counted on to follow through on commitments while maintaining excellent communication about priorities and challenges.
  • You are motivated by growth and continuous learning. You see this role as an opportunity to develop both technical and operational skills, and you're committed to contributing to lab efficiency and excellence.

In this position you will

  • Support lab stock management including reagent and supply inventory, ordering and receiving, and preparation of common solutions, with increasing independence as you develop familiarity with lab operations
  • Help maintain lab organization and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and safety
  • Perform mammalian and stem cell culture, including cell maintenance, passaging, transfection, virus preparation, differentiation protocols, and co-culture systems, beginning with close guidance and progressing to autonomous execution
  • Contribute to molecular biology and genomics workflows, including plasmid construction, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA/RNA isolation, and sequencing preparation
  • Write and update standard operating procedures for lab protocols and processes as you gain expertise

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or related field
  • 1-2 years of laboratory experience (academic or industry setting)
  • Familiarity with standard molecular biology techniques (such as cloning, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA/RNA isolation) and mammalian cell culture; hands-on experience preferred but not required.
  • Proficiency with basic computer skills, including data entry, spreadsheets, and document preparation.
  • Effective organizational, communication, and collaborative skills

The hourly rate for this position is $29.00. This amount does not include benefits or other forms of compensation.



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