Molecular Biology Research Associate (RA) /Senior Research Associate (Senior RA)

  • Nutcracker Therapeutics
  • Emeryville, California
  • Full Time

Pick a challenge that is bigger than your lifetime.

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That's our focus at Nutcracker. We are an early-stage company looking at mRNA and its production in a completely different way. We are challenging the conventional and merging both innovative science with engineering to not just save lives, but to improve the manufacturing and delivery of critical health solutions. Yes, as our name implies, we are working to crack some of the toughest scientific and engineering nuts out there. If you are driven to discover, create, and inspire something that moves science and technology forward, and lasts a lifetime and beyond, you're ready to be a Nutcracker.

In summary:

We are looking for an organized, talented and motivated RA or Senior RA to join our RNA research team to support molecular biology activities leading to the development of nucleic acid therapeutic based therapeutics. The candidate will use cutting edge technologies to overcome process bottlenecks and must be willing to expand their knowledge outside his/her educational field and comfort zone.

The desired candidate must be able to apply his/her knowledge of nucleic acid biochemistry to new challenges, working cross-functionally to drive project timelines and deliverables. He/she must have proven problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

This is an excellent opportunity for research professionals looking to make an impact in a mission driven team.

Responsibilities

  • The individual will have several duties associated to the production of template DNA and mRNA to support both research activities and device development.
  • In addition, the individual will participate in regular QC activities such as making NGS libraries, running sequencer.
  • Under limited supervision, executes experiments as directed by the supervisor and communicates results as part of multi-disciplinary team(s).
  • Applies relevant scientific principles and techniques to research problems.
  • Maintains broad knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and techniques and may contribute to the identification of new project areas or technologies.
  • May provide technical and scientific input to the project team or research leadership.
  • Complies with all safety requirements.
  • Documents experiments, follows and improves SOPs, and tracks samples using Nutcracker's ELN and LIMS.
  • Contributes effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements

  • The candidate should have 3+ years of research experience in an academic or industry setting and outstanding scientific and personal skills
  • BS/MS in Biochemistry, Molecular/Cellular Biology or related fields
  • Expertise in molecular biology skills including PCR/qPCR, invitro transcription, NGS library preparation and RNA handling knowledge.
  • Experience in liquid handler, mammalian cell culture, transfection and setting up cellular assays would be beneficial.
  • Familiarity with capillary electrophoresis, Flow cytometry and ELISA would be advantageous.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to convey ideas and present data.Highly attentive to detail, flexible, and curious.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, adept at building cross functional relationships with different teams.

$85,000 - $110,000 a year

The expected range for the Molecular Biology Research Associate (RA)/Senior Research Associate (Senior RA) is $85,000 to $110,000 per year based on candidate experience, education, location, and other job-related factors. Employees are also eligible to participate in benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, 401(k), PTO plan and employee stock options.

Nutcracker Therapeutics is an early stage life science company building a workplace where highly collaborative and diverse teams thrive. If your best work is performed in a fast-paced entrepreneurial work environment where meaningful work is mastered each day, we'd love to hear from you.

Nutcracker Therapeutics is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, as such, we do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, citizenship, political activity or affiliation, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition (as defined under California law), veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, sex or gender (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), taking or requesting statutorily protected leave, or any other basis protected by law.

Agency Disclaimer:

Nutcracker Therapeutics, Inc. (hereafter, Nutcracker) does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies in response to the Nutcracker Careers page or a Nutcracker social media post. Recruiters, agencies and other persons need to have written agreement with Nutcracker, and written approval from a Nutcracker Human Resources representative, to submit resumes for a specific position in order to receive credit. Nutcracker will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee relating to unsolicited resumes and without a written agreement. Nutcracker explicitly reserves the right to hire said candidate(s) without any financial or other obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of Nutcracker.

Job ID: 484982930
Originally Posted on: 7/12/2025

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