Research Associate

Merge Labs

San Francisco, CA0–2 yrs3h agovia LinkedIn

This job at a glance

Who can apply
New grads and up to 2 years
Must know
Troubleshooting
Nice to have
Circuit design
Work
On-site in San Francisco
Pay
Not stated by the employer.
Skill demand
Troubleshooting16%Circuit design2%of 99 similar entry-level jobs posted in the US this week
Listed
Nov 6, 2026 · still open

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About the Role

Seeking a Research Associate to develop and characterize neuronal models for ultrasound-based molecular actuation. This hands-on role requires strong neuronal culture skills, experimental troubleshooting, and method development.

Key Responsibilities

  • Establish, maintain, and characterize neuronal cell culture systems (primary, stem cell-derived, or brain slice models).
  • Perform transfections and viral transductions to introduce engineered constructs.
  • Execute microscopy and cell-based assays to assess construct expression, localization, and function.
  • Collaborate with molecular biology, neuroscience, and in vivo teams to design experiments, interpret results, and inform iterative tool optimization.
  • Troubleshoot experiments and contribute to protocol development, optimization, and standardization.
  • Maintain accurate experimental records and communicate results clearly across teams.

Requirements & Tech Stack

  • BS or MS in Bioengineering, Neuroscience, Cell Biology, or a related discipline.
  • Hands-on laboratory experience.
  • Experience with one or more neuronal systems: primary neurons, iPSC-derived neurons, acute or organotypic brain slice cultures.
  • Experience with transfection, viral transduction, microscopy, or cell-based assays.
  • Systematic approach to troubleshooting, with strong attention to experimental quality, reproducibility, and documentation.
  • Collaborative and organized approach to laboratory work.

Qualifications

  • Enthusiasm for tackling foundational neurotechnology problems in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary team.
  • Nice to have: Experience with protein or genetic circuit engineering.

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