Research Associate

Research Associate – R&D

Location: Chicago, IL (in-person)

Compensation: $60K – $80K salary + 0.1% - 0.2% equity + benefits

BiomeSense is a start-up revolutionizing human gut microbiome sampling and analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute and optimize microbiology protocols supporting nucleic acid extraction, PCR, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) in a high-throughput laboratory environment, following current SOPs carefully and maintaining speed without sacrificing work quality.
• Collaborate closely with engineers and leadership to validate novel systems for microbial DNA stabilization, extraction, and purification.
• Accurately coordinate intake and processing of large quantities of partner samples.
• Demonstrate proactive & confident communication, clarifying priorities or questions before beginning work.
• Design and conduct experiments with guidance from scientific leadership to retire technical risks, optimize protocols, and contribute to product innovation.
• Maintain rigorous documentation practices that allow work to be replicated and reviewed, and adhere to established quality management systems (e.g., GLP, design controls).
• Effectively communicate throughout the experimental cycle – give daily progress updates, collaborate on results, flag risks early, and ask for assistance promptly.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, bioengineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with core microbiology techniques, nucleic acid extraction, PCR, and NGS sample preparation.
• Highly organized, proactive, and dependable, excited by a high ownership, collaborative, and fast-paced setting.
• Receptive to direction and constructive feedback, with a willingness to apply what you learn and support team priorities.