Research Associate, Screening Platform

Aether Biomachines•Menlo Park, CA

14h•$70,000 - $90,000

About The Position

Aether Biomachines is building the future of protein engineering with AI. Our proprietary Protein Function Model, Aetheron, unlocks entirely new classes of proteins that power breakthrough applications - from recycling plastics and breaking down “forever chemicals” to creating next-generation materials that 3D print faster and stronger than anything on the market. With real-world impact across aerospace, defense, clean energy, and beyond, Aether is where cutting-edge science meets world-changing opportunity. MISSION As a member of Aether’s platform team, you will operate at the very top of our discovery funnel - where every experiment directly influences what comes next. Your work in molecular cloning, protein production, and assay development won’t just enable rapid iteration; it will shape the trajectory of all our discovery programs. This role is ideal for someone motivated by seeing their contributions drive immediate progress and create lasting impact on the company’s success.

Nice To Haves

Hands-on experience with: Automated liquid handling platforms PCR, RCA, and molecular cloning DNA/protein electrophoresis and purification Bacterial cell culture and aseptic technique Recombinant protein expression and sequence analysis Buffer/media preparation Chromatography methods
Familiarity with common lab equipment (plate readers, centrifuges, UV/Vis, incubators, sonicators, gel imagers).
Strong organizational skills for managing samples, supplies, and records.
Competence with data analysis tools (Excel, PowerPoint); coding familiarity (e.g., Python) is a plus.
Ability to follow and draft SOPs, and communicate results effectively (verbal, written, visual).

Responsibilities

Perform advanced cloning using modern high-efficiency techniques.
Carry out DNA amplification, purification, and QC with rigor.
Express recombinant proteins in prokaryotic and cell-free expression systems.
Purify proteins using affinity methods (e.g., Ni-NTA, anti-FLAG) and maintain high quality standards.
Prepare reagents and operate lab instrumentation reliably.
Assess purity and yield using SDS-PAGE, western blot, UV/Vis, and protein quantification assays.
Set up and execute plate-based assays (fluorescence, luminescence).
Operate and maintain automation platforms (liquid handlers, plate readers).
Document, analyze, and report experimental data to drive rapid iteration.
Follow SOPs to ensure reproducibility and quality.
Collaborate across teams to troubleshoot, optimize, and streamline workflows.
Maintain clear records, inventory, and strong communication in a fast-paced environment.