Research Associate - Molecular Biology

Title: Research Associate
Reporting to: Head of Gene Therapy Technologies
Location: Alameda, CA 94501
About Ascend:
Ascend is a new model for gene & cell therapy design, development, and manufacturing. We partner with ambitious biotechnology teams to embed scalable manufacturing in their operations from the beginning. We support manufacturing and process development projects from design through to clinical and commercial scale.
Why we’re different:
We’re building a place for people inspired by the possibilities of biological engineering for gene & cell therapy technologies. We want to lift up a new generation of experts and breakthrough start-ups. That's why the Ascend model includes the opportunity of cross-functional training to enhance professional development and continually seed fresh ideas.
The Role:
We are seeking a highly motivated research associate with an interest in discovery and development of novel technologies and early-stage research to join our growing team in the discovery biology group. The model candidate should be trained in the field of molecular and cell biology or synthetic biology with experience in cell line engineering, CRISPR/Cas9 high-throughput screening, AAV technologies, protein engineering and next generation sequencing. In this role, the successful candidate will be part of a team to develop cell lines and processes for improved AAV manufacturing. This is a unique opportunity to join a company committed to cutting edge basic and clinical science while advancing cell and gene therapies into the clinic.
Main Responsibilities:

• Assist in the development of cell lines to produce viral vectors for clinical/commercial production
• Assist in performing high-throughput screening
• Review and assist in writing and revising technical documents including laboratory SOPs, protocols, reports, batch records, patents and publications
• Establish and maintain a good working relationship across all operations staff and teams
• Assist in the preparation of material for external presentations at national and international conferences and to external organizations
• Present latest research findings in weekly updates and engage in rigorous scientific discussion
• Assist in the validation and tech transfer early-stage discovery to the CMC group
• Train incoming staff and research associates

Requirements
What you’ll bring:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in cell and molecular biology, genetics, or related discipline; preference to have at least 1 year of laboratory experience in industry or academic lab. Research Associate I/II and SRA positions available
• Self-directed and self-motivated. Demonstrated ability to work both independently and also as a team member in a matrix environment

What we look for:
Motivational team member: understands that teamwork comes first, sees the bigger picture and the value of succeeding for all
Accountable leader: is first to stand up for team and product, and take responsibility to drive results
Flexible problem-solver: is solution-orientated and approaches challenges with creativity and curiosity
Focused executor: is passionate about quality work, delivers on time, is proactive and driven to succeed
Straightforward communicator: is open, honest, admits mistakes, listens, and develops with others
Does this sound like the sort of team you’d like to be a part of? Interested in growing in an interdisciplinary creative space and pursuing your passion projects? Please get in touch!
Benefits
Joining a start up at such an early stage is a fantastic change to learn from and influence the environment around you. As well as this we offer:

• Annual Bonus
• Competitive Salary
• Exciting Equity Plan