Research Associate, Research Technology

We are seeking a Research Associate to join our Research Technology team working on crop solutions for a more sustainable, healthier, and tastier food. This position will execute molecular biology workflows as part of a dynamic and highly-collaborative team. This role requires the willingness to learn and train on molecular biology lab skills such as nucleic acid extraction (RNA and DNA), quantitative PCR, automation, and DNA sequencing. These workflows are designed for different analyses such as gene expression, soil microbiome, and DNA methylation which will move our product pipeline development forward. 

The candidate should be collaborative and capable of independently executing their responsibilities with a high degree of integrity.  To be successful in this role, the candidate should have excellent communication skills, a willingness to try new protocols and be able to manage time effectively. 

This role reports to the DNA Sequencing Manager, Research Technology Team, and is based in our Emeryville, California headquarters.

Compensation Target:

Research Associate I $69,000 to $75,000

Bonus target 10%

Bonuses are earned based on annual company and individual performance and are prorated based on the start date. 

Sound reserves the ability to adjust the compensation range based on the final candidate’s experience, skillset, and geography. In addition to on-target earnings, we offer above-average equity grants for the industry as we believe that every employee should have a stake in the company’s growth. If you’re above this compensation target, we encourage you to reach out and discuss the entire package and opportunity before deciding not to pursue this position. 

Responsibilities

• Perform nucleic acid extractions (DNA and RNA) from plant tissues as well as soil samples
• Perform PCR-based experiments to quantify relative abundance of targets (DNA or RNA). Requires execution of high-throughput experiments using lab automation for some protocols
• Prepare DNA sequencing libraries when needed  
• Maintain laboratory protocols and systems
• Summarize the results of experiments and document them in an electronic lab notebook through our LIMs
• Occasionally present findings and facilitate discussion at team meetings
• Help develop and implement processes for improving protocol efficiency
• Perform other duties as assigned by the manager from time to time

Targeted Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in life sciences
• Wet lab experience specifically with nucleic acid extraction and PCR-based applications
• Basic knowledge of genetics and molecular biology
• Experience with molecular biology techniques, including but not limited to PCR, RTqPCR, and DNA and RNA extraction
• Ability to work cross-functionally and collaboratively
• Ability to work independently
• Strong communication and high attention to detail
• Passionate about plant and soil science and the future of food and agriculture.

Preferred Experience

• Knowledge of plant science 
• Work with laboratory automation 
• Familiarity and experience with basic statistical analyses

A successful candidate should display the following company values

• Boldness: We approach each day with urgency, challenging ourselves to achieve big, enduring impact. We courageously pursue new things and take chances, believing that fortune favors the bold.
• Ownership: We take accountability to the extreme, prioritizing the long-term interests of the company over the short-term interests of ourselves. We celebrate doers, decision-makers, and results-seekers. 
• Tenacity:  We work hard and go the extra mile to achieve successful outcomes. We are solution-oriented and believe in ourselves and each other, even in the face of challenges.
• Creativity: We embrace diversity, unique points of view, and innovative approaches to problem-solving. ​“This is the way it’s always done” is not in our vocabulary.