Research Associate

About the Role

Merge Labs is seeking a Research Associate to join their High Throughput Screening (HTS) team and take shared ownership of automated workflows. This role involves developing and executing assays, operating and improving liquid-handling platforms, training users, troubleshooting equipment, and identifying and removing bottlenecks. The position is ideal for individuals who are meticulous at the bench, familiar with automation, and enjoy building new processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize plate-based assays across molecular biology and cell biology, focusing on reproducibility and scalability.
• Translate validated assays into automated workflows.
• Partner with program teams to establish Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), train users, and transfer methods for routine execution.
• Identify sources of experimental variability and collaborate with scientists to improve assay performance and robustness.
• Prepare samples, reagents, and cell cultures.
• Execute experiments with accuracy and consistency.
• 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.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Strong hands-on experience in assay development and high-throughput screening, including designing, optimizing, and validating plate-based assays and executing them at scale.
• Experience with laboratory automation and a systematic approach to troubleshooting and improving experimental workflows.
• Strong written documentation and communication skills.
• Collaborative mindset for working across scientific and engineering disciplines.

Qualifications

• A BS, BA, or MS in Biology, Biochemistry, Neuroscience, Bioengineering, or a related field.
• Depth in one or more of the following areas:
• AAV production and analytics: mammalian cell transfection, viral purification, and qPCR-based titering.
• Cell biology: cell culture, transfection or transduction, and plate-based assessment of cell viability or function.
• Molecular biology: PCR/qPCR assay development, nucleic-acid preparation and quantification, or sequencing library preparation.

Nice to Have

• 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.