Senior Research Associate, Foundry (Contract)

Tessera Therapeutics • Somerville, MA

7d

About The Position

We are seeking a Senior Research Associate for our Foundry team. This role will contribute to the optimization and continuous improvement of DNA production workflows and processes. The associate will perform DNA assembly, analyze and interpret experimental data, and ensure accurate reporting and documentation. Collaboration with the automation team to develop, optimize, and implement laboratory protocols is a key aspect of this position. The role also involves working cross-functionally with R&D, analytical, and bioinformatics teams to support project objectives and timelines, participating in team meetings, and contributing to the planning and execution of new initiatives and projects. The associate will stay current with advancements in DNA technologies and molecular biology research and support day-to-day laboratory operations by maintaining equipment, managing inventory, and coordinating the ordering and receiving of laboratory supplies. Tessera Therapeutics is pioneering Gene Writing™, a new biotechnology designed to offer scientists and clinicians the ability to write small and large therapeutic messages into the genome, thereby curing diseases at their source. Gene Writing holds the potential to become a new category in genetic medicine, building upon recent breakthroughs in gene therapy and gene editing while eliminating important limitations in their reach, utilization, and efficacy.

Requirements

• BS in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or related field with 2+ years of industry experience; or MS in these fields with 0-2 years of industry experience
• Strong foundation in molecular biology techniques and cloning workflows
• Expertise in different cloning methodologies such as Gibson, Golden-Gate, and Site-Directed Mutagenesis (SDM)
• Execution of end-to-end plasmid workflows including design, assembly, transformation, screening, and sequence verification
• Performing plasmid QC (DNA quantification, Sanger sequencing, and residual protein) and maintaining inventory for downstream applications
• Proficiency with software tools such as Benchling, Geneious, or similar
• Accurate record keeping of experimental data and maintenance of detailed electronic notebooks
• Adhere to laboratory safety guidelines, SOPs, and regulatory requirements
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a collaborative team

Nice To Haves

• Experience with automated liquid handlers and high-throughput workflows is preferred
• Candidates without automation experience are still encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the optimization and continuous improvement of DNA production workflows and processes
• Perform DNA assembly, analyze and interpret experimental data, and ensure accurate reporting and documentation
• Collaborate with the automation team to develop, optimize, and implement laboratory protocols
• Work cross-functionally with R&D, analytical, and bioinformatics teams to support project objectives and timelines
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to the planning and execution of new initiatives and projects
• Stay current with advancements in DNA technologies and molecular biology research
• Support day-to-day laboratory operations by maintaining equipment, managing inventory, and coordinating the ordering and receiving of laboratory supplies

Benefits

• The stated pay range represents Tessera’s good-faith estimate for this role. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors, including but not limited to individual qualifications, years of relevant experience, internal compensation alignment, and external market data.

What This Job Offers

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