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
Sign in free to see which of these skills your resume already shows.
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.