Research Assistant

About Latent Labs

Latent Labs is building frontier models that learn the fundamentals of biology, pursuing ambitious goals with curiosity and scientific excellence. Our team includes co-developers of AlphaFold, inventors of latent diffusion, and builders of pioneering lab data management systems and high-throughput protein screening platforms. We foster interdisciplinary exchange, continuous learning, and collaboration.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a curious and engaged Research Associate to join our team at the interface of generative AI and biology. You will work closely with lead scientists to execute and optimize assays for testing and characterizing novel proteins designed using our proprietary models. This is a hands-on laboratory role emphasizing mammalian cell culture, cell-based assays, and high-throughput screening (HTS). You will contribute to applying artificial intelligence to scientific challenges, develop your experimental skills, receive scientific guidance and mentorship, take ownership of routine laboratory workflows, and collaborate to generate reliable, reproducible data.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain mammalian cell cultures, including thawing, passaging, expansion, cryopreservation, and monitoring cell health. Prepare cells for screening experiments using aseptic technique.
• Execute high-throughput screening (HTS) workflows using plate-based assays in 96- and/or 384-well formats.
• Support assay development and optimization by testing conditions, assessing reproducibility, and troubleshooting experimental issues.
• Operate laboratory automation such as liquid handlers and plate readers.
• Document and summarize results in Benchling or a similar electronic lab notebook, track samples, and share results with the team.
• Support daily laboratory operations including reagent preparation, supply management, and workspace organization.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or a related field with approximately 1–3 years of relevant laboratory experience, OR a Master’s degree with 0–2 years of relevant experience. Academic research and internships are welcome.
• Hands-on mammalian cell culture skills, including aseptic technique and assessing cell viability. Experience with transfection is a plus.
• Experience with HTS or high-throughput assay workflows, including multiwell plate assays, multichannel pipetting, plate layouts, controls, and sample handling. Experience with automated liquid handling.
• Foundation in experimental biology, including cell-based assays and complementary techniques (e.g., flow cytometry, ELISA, fluorescence or luminescence assays, molecular cloning).
• Careful data handling and documentation using Excel, GraphPad Prism, or similar tools.
• Familiarity with Benchling or other sample-tracking systems is a requirement.
• Familiarity with Python, or a willingness to learn, is a requirement.
• Collaborative and curious approach with clear communication.
• Strong organization and attention to detail.

What We Offer

• Strongly competitive compensation and benefits packages.
• Private health insurance.
• Pension/401(K) contributions.
• Generous leave policies, including gender-neutral parental leave.
• Hybrid working.
• Travel opportunities.
• Stimulating work environment.
• Opportunity to shape the future of synthetic biology.