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Research Associate / Senior Research Associate

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. Xaira is headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle, and London.

About the Role

Xaira is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate / Senior Research Associate to join our company.. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques, viral vector preparation, and a strong track record of executing experiments with high fidelity and reproducibility.

You will work as part of a collaborative team of molecular biologists and genomic scientists, playing a key role in enabling research programs across the organization. This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about bench science, technical excellence, and contributing to cutting-edge research infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform and optimize molecular cloning workflows, including PCR, restriction enzyme digestion, ligation, Golden Gate & Gibson assembly, and transformation.
  • Produce, concentrate, and titrate lentiviral vectors for delivery of genetic constructs to mammalian cells.
  • Maintain accurate records of constructs, plasmid inventories, viral batches, and QC data.
  • Collaborate with scientists across therapeutic areas to support their vector and viral reagent needs.
  • Troubleshoot experimental issues independently and suggest improvements to protocols and workflows.
  • Contribute to the development of scalable, high-throughput cloning and viral production pipelines.
  • Ensure rigorous quality control and documentation of all reagents and processes to enable reproducibility.
  • Participate in regular group meetings and present data and progress updates to internal teams.

Qualifications

  • B.S./M.S. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field with 2+ years of laboratory experience.
  • Proficient in library cloning techniques such as vector design, PCR, assembly methods (e.g. Gibson, Golden Gate), and bacterial transformation.
  • Hands-on experience with lentiviral production, concentration (e.g. ultracentrifugation or PEG precipitation), titration, and transduction of mammalian cells.
  • Familiarity with plasmid design tools (e.g., SnapGene, Benchling) and experience with sequence verification and troubleshooting.
  • Strong aseptic technique and experience with mammalian cell culture preferred.
  • Highly organized, with excellent attention to detail and record-keeping in electronic lab notebooks (ELNs).
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a commitment to transparency and teamwork.
  • Experience with next generation sequencing (NGS)  as well as high-throughput cloning or automation platforms 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. We offer a competitive package that includes base salary, bonus, and equity. The base pay range for this position is expected to be $72,000 - $115,000 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. Xaira Therapeutics is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

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