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Senior Research Associate, Advanced Cell Engineering

South San Francisco, California, United States

About Xaira Therapeutics

Xaira is an innovative biotech startup focused on leveraging AI to transform drug discovery and development. The company is leading the development of generative AI models to design protein and antibody therapeutics, enabling the creation of medicines against historically hard-to-drug molecular targets. It is also developing foundation models for biology and disease to enable better target elucidation and patient stratification. Collectively, these technologies aim to continually enable the identification of novel therapies and to improve success in drug development.

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled and motivated (Senior) Research Associate to join our Advanced Cell Engineering team at Xaira Therapeutics, specializing in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) engineering and differentiation. The ideal candidate will work closely with a team of scientists to develop and execute protocols that drive advancements in iPSC-based models for high-throughput functional genomics and drug discovery.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and optimize iPSC engineering and differentiation protocols for various target cell types, ensuring high efficiency and reproducibility.
  • Execute and troubleshoot iPSC differentiation protocols, monitoring cell quality, viability, and phenotype at each stage.
  • Perform molecular biology techniques, such as gene editing (e.g., CRISPR), transduction, and clonal selection, to generate engineered iPSC lines.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed records of experimental procedures, data, and results, and provide regular updates to project leads.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support assay development and high-throughput screening initiatives.
  • Contribute to lab organization, including reagent and iPSC inventory management and adherence to quality control and safety guidelines.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field.
  • 2+ years of hands-on experience with iPSC culture, engineering, and differentiation techniques.
  • Proficiency in molecular and cell biology techniques such as CRISPR gene editing, qPCR, immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry, cloning, and viral transduction.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently, troubleshoot protocols, and maintain precise records.
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication abilities.
  • Experience in high-throughput screening, functional genomics, or drug discovery is a plus.
  • Experience in data analysis using Python or R is a plus.

Compensation

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, seeking to provide an open, flexible, and friendly work environment to empower employees and provide them with a platform to develop their long-term careers. A Summary of Benefits is available for all applicants. The base pay range for this position is expected to be $98,000 - $105,000 annually; however, the base pay offered may vary depending on the market, job-related knowledge, skills and capabilities, and experience.

Xaira Therapeutics an equal-opportunity employer. We believe that our strength is in our differences. Our goal to build a diverse and inclusive team began on day one, and it will never end.

TO ALL RECRUITMENT AGENCIES: Xaira Therapeutics does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias or employees. XairaTherapeutics is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

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