Research Associate - Automation & High Throughput Screening

Merge Labs • San Francisco, CA

2d • $95,000 - $120,000

About The Position

Merge Labs is a frontier research lab working to bridge biological and artificial intelligence through new approaches to brain-computer interfaces. The HTS team builds shared infrastructure to increase the scale and precision of Merge experiments by selecting instruments, converting manual assays into standardized automated workflows, and transferring those workflows to teams across the organization.

The Research Associate will share ownership of automated workflows. The role combines bench assay development and execution with operation and improvement of a liquid-handling platform, user training, equipment troubleshooting, and identifying and resolving workflow bottlenecks. It is suited to someone meticulous at the bench, familiar with automation, and energized by building new processes.

Requirements

• BS, BA, or MS in Biology, Biochemistry, Neuroscience, Bioengineering, or a related field.
• Strong hands-on experience in assay development and high-throughput screening, including designing, optimizing, and validating plate-based assays and executing them at scale.
• Depth in one or more of the following areas: AAV production and analytics, including mammalian cell transfection, viral purification, and qPCR-based titering; cell biology, including cell culture, transfection or transduction, and plate-based assessment of cell viability or function; or molecular biology, including PCR/qPCR assay development, nucleic-acid preparation and quantification, or sequencing library preparation.
• Experience with laboratory automation and a systematic approach to troubleshooting and improving experimental workflows.
• Strong written documentation and communication skills, and a collaborative mindset for working across scientific and engineering disciplines.

Nice To Haves

• Experience culturing and handling primary or iPSC-derived neurons, including plate-based assays of neuronal viability or function.
• Hands-on experience with Hamilton, Tecan, Opentrons, or other liquid handlers.
• Familiarity with Python, R, or another scripting or data-analysis language.
• Experience with LIMS, ELNs, sample-tracking systems, or automated data pipelines.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize plate-based assays in molecular biology and cell biology, focusing on reproducibility and scalability.
• Translate validated assays into automated workflows; partner with program teams to establish SOPs, train users, and transfer methods for routine execution.
• Identify sources of experimental variability and work with scientists to improve assay performance and robustness.
• Prepare samples, reagents, and cell cultures, and execute experiments accurately and consistently.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments.
• Collect, organize, and perform initial quality control on experimental data; maintain detailed records, sample metadata, and inventory in digital laboratory systems.
• Help maintain a safe, organized, and efficient laboratory environment.

What This Job Offers

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