Research Associate - In Vitro Molecular Neurotechnology

Merge Labs • San Francisco, CA

1d • $95,000 - $120,000

About The Position

Merge Labs is a frontier research lab focused on bridging biological and artificial intelligence to maximize human ability, agency, and experience. Its Bio team develops biotechnologies for next-generation brain-computer interfaces, combining molecular engineering, synthetic biology, neuroscience, and physical methods such as ultrasound.

The Research Associate will help develop and characterize neuronal models for ultrasound-based molecular actuation. The role establishes and maintains neuronal culture systems, introduces engineered constructs, and evaluates their expression, localization, and function. In collaboration with molecular biology, neuroscience, and in vivo teams, the Research Associate generates reproducible data to guide actuator development and optimization. This hands-on position suits someone with strong neuronal culture skills who enjoys troubleshooting experiments and developing methods.

Requirements

• A BS or MS in Bioengineering, Neuroscience, Cell Biology, or a related discipline, with hands-on laboratory experience.
• Experience with one or more neuronal systems, including primary neurons, iPSC-derived neurons, or acute or organotypic brain slice cultures.
• Experience with transfection, viral transduction, microscopy, or cell-based assays.
• A systematic approach to troubleshooting and strong attention to experimental quality, reproducibility, and documentation.
• A collaborative, organized approach to laboratory work and enthusiasm for foundational neurotechnology problems in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary team.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with protein or genetic circuit engineering.

Responsibilities

• Establish, maintain, and characterize neuronal cell culture systems, including primary, stem cell-derived, or brain slice models.
• Perform transfections and viral transductions to introduce engineered constructs into cells.
• Execute microscopy and cell-based assays to assess construct expression, localization, and function.
• Collaborate with molecular biology, neuroscience, and in vivo teams to design experiments, interpret results, and inform iterative tool optimization.
• Troubleshoot experiments and contribute to protocol development, optimization, and standardization.
• Maintain accurate experimental records, culture histories, and sample metadata, and communicate results clearly across teams.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level