(Senior) Research Associate, Discovery Biology

Variant Bio is developing life-saving therapies by studying the genes of people with exceptional health-related traits. By identifying communities with unique genetic architectures and outlier phenotypes, Variant Bio has identified novel human genetic evidence that is the basis for programs with breakthrough potential across multiple therapeutic areas. The company's research is powered by its proprietary Inference platform, which integrates across deep phenotyping and multi-omic data using statistical genetics and AI/ML approaches to identify and validate therapeutic targets. In addition, Variant Bio has established strategic partnerships with Novo Nordisk and Boehringer Ingelheim, validating the strength of the platform and enabling the advancement of novel therapeutic programs through world-class development expertise.

With ethics at its core, the company launched an unprecedented benefit-sharing program in 2020, in which it has pledged tangible benefits that directly impact the communities it partners with throughout the world. 

Job Description

We are looking for a (Senior) Research Associate with experience in cell biology to join our integrated and collaborative R&D team. The successful candidate would have a track record of implementing a range of preclinical drug discovery techniques to uncover novel biology and develop assays for therapeutic programs.

Since we are a growing start-up, we also seek creative thinkers, agile learners and candidates with an unwavering willingness to do what is necessary to help build the company and mature a human-genetics-backed therapeutic pipeline. Our current disease areas of interest include inflammation, immunology, and fibrosis.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement robust functional assays to support the discovery and characterization of novel therapeutics.
• Develop and apply bioassays to connect disease-associated genetic variants with target genes, relevant cell types, molecular pathways, and disease phenotypes.
• Execute a wide range of molecular and cellular biology experiments and analyze resulting data, including flow cytometry, Western blotting, ELISA/MSD/Luminex, plate-based biochemical assays, immunofluorescence microscopy, cloning, transfection, generation of stable and knockout cell lines, qPCR, and si/shRNA-mediated knockdown.
• Perform routine bacterial and mammalian cell culture, including the culture and manipulation of primary human and mouse cells.
• Maintain accurate and detailed experimental records using electronic lab notebooks and adhere strictly to established protocols.
• Contribute to the evaluation and implementation of new technologies and experimental approaches.
• Communicate scientific findings clearly and effectively to both internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Stay current with relevant scientific literature and contribute to publications and other scientific outputs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Cell Biology or a related field with 2–7 years of relevant industry experience, or a Master’s degree with 1–2 years of industry experience. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree and 6+ years of directly relevant industry experience are also encouraged to apply.
• Demonstrated experience with a range of assay platforms, including the development and optimization of robust biochemical and/or cell-based assays to support drug discovery. Strong troubleshooting skills are essential.
• Familiarity with in vivo pharmacology approaches (e.g., mouse models of disease, ex vivo sample analysis) is a plus.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively in a cross-functional, matrixed environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to contribute to a multidisciplinary R&D team.
• Self-motivated, creative, detail-oriented, and a critical thinker.
• Motivated by the company’s mission to advance impactful science while upholding strong ethical standards.

Compensation & Perks

At Variant Bio, we’re building something meaningful and we believe supporting our people is essential to that mission. We offer a thoughtful and competitive set of benefits designed to support your health, growth, and life outside of work.

• Competitive Compensation & Equity – Market-competitive salary with the opportunity to participate in company equity and share in our long-term success
• Comprehensive Health Benefits – Variant Bio covers 100% of employee premiums for medical, dental, and vision insurance. Dependents may be added to the plan at an incremental cost.
• Flexible Time Off – Flexible paid time off and company holidays, with an emphasis on balance and trust.
• 401(k) Plan – Employer-sponsored retirement plan with company match.
• Professional Growth – Support for learning, development, and attending scientific or industry conferences.
• Collaborative, Mission-Driven Culture – Work alongside a highly engaged, interdisciplinary team passionate about transforming human health through genetics.
• Early-Stage Impact – A chance to make a meaningful contribution at a growing biotech where your work has visible impact.

Anticipated annual base salary for this position is $85,000 - $100,000 plus up to 10% bonus and an options package, for total compensation of up to $93,500 - $110,000, plus equity options.

The annual salary range above is based on the responsibilities and qualifications listed above. Individual salary will depend on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Don't meet every single requirement but are excited to join the Variant Bio team? If your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may still be the right candidate for this or other roles.

Variant Bio is an equal opportunity employer that guarantees a work environment that respects and values diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.