Research Associate II/III - R&D

Overview

Eitr Biologics, Inc., (Eitr) is a San Diego, CA based biotechnology company focused on the pursuit of novel next generation immunotherapeutics for the treatment of infectious diseases that are a current or emerging threat to public health. Our scientific approach emphasizes the development of technologies that will increase global accessibility to lifesaving immunotherapeutics. Eitr has fostered a robust and highly collaborative worldwide network of academic and government laboratories that share in our scientific goal to address unmet public health needs. Eitr scientists can expect to work in a collaborative atmosphere to advance promising early-stage exploratory technologies to clinical stages of drug development.

Eitr currently has an opening for a Research Associate II or Research Associate III – R &D position, requiring the qualifications and responsibilities listed below. Title is commensurate with experience.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology experiments including cloning, PCR, and nucleic acid purification
• Isolate plasmid DNA (Miniprep to Maxiprep scale) and verify the sequences
• Generate phage display libraries and perform panning experiments with multiple targets
• Express and purify recombinant proteins from eukaryotic and/or prokaryotic hosts
• Characterize purified proteins using a variety of biochemical techniques (UV/Vis, SDS-PAGE, ELISA, surface plasmon resonance (SPR), etc.)
• Prepare buffers, reagents, and other materials necessary for experiments
• Accurately record experimental data in a timely manner
• Properly label and store all samples, buffers or reagents
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

Basic Qualifications

• B.S. in a biology related discipline with 2+ years of experience in an academic or industry setting
• Experience with molecular cloning, DNA primer design, and PCR methodologies
• Experience with DNA/RNA purification (e.g., Miniprep or Maxiprep) and gel electrophoresis
• Experience working with phage and/or performing phage display experiments (library construction, panning, and sequencing)
• Hands-on experience developing and optimizing ELISA assays
• Experience preparing buffers and reagents
• Ability to work independently, interpret data, and follow written procedures/protocols precisely
• Good communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills
• Highly organized and committed to integrity, professionalism, and collegiality

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with protein/antibody characterization (SDS-PAGE, bio-layer interferometry (BLI), and surface plasmon resonance (SPR))
• Familiarity with AKTA FPLC instruments and Unicorn software suite for protein purification
• Experience working with toxins and/or infectious pathogens
• Familiarity with aseptic technique and mammalian cell culture
• Familiarity with Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) sample preparation and downstream data analysis

Physical Demands of the Position Offered

The physical demands described here are representative, but not exhaustive, of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this laboratory position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

On-site role:

This is a full-time position that requires the employee to physically report to the jobsite.

Lifting and Carrying:

This position may require the ability to lift and carry laboratory equipment, glassware, and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds on occasion. Employees should be able to safely use appropriate equipment and follow proper lifting techniques.

Fine Motor Skills:

Precise fine motor skills are essential for tasks such as pipetting and operating delicate laboratory equipment. Candidates should demonstrate manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

Standing and Walking:

Laboratory work often involves prolonged periods of standing and walking while conducting experiments, monitoring equipment, and moving between workstations.

Sitting:

Data analysis, documentation, and report writing are integral aspects of this role, requiring the ability to sit at a desk or workstation for extended periods.

Bending, Stooping, and Reaching:

Employees may be required to bend, stoop, and reach to access equipment, samples, or materials on upper or lower shelves or within laboratory hoods. These activities may involve climbing ladders, stairs, step stools, or other structures. Candidates should be able to safely perform these tasks.

Vision:

Good vision is essential for tasks such as reading labels, observing specimens, and using microscopes. Corrected vision and color vision may be required for accurate analysis.

Hearing:

Laboratory environments may include equipment that produces noise. Adequate hearing is necessary for communication and safety awareness.

Use of Laboratory Equipment:

Proficiency in the safe operation of laboratory equipment, including centrifuges, microscopes, and pipettes, is expected.

Laboratory Safety:

Compliance with safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, safety goggles, and respiratory protection where required is mandatory.

Chemical Handling:

The handling of chemicals and biological materials is a fundamental aspect of bioscience laboratories. This may include the ability to safely handle and transport hazardous materials.

Working with Biological Agents or Toxins:

This position involves working with biological agents or toxins, which may require adherence to specific safety protocols and vaccinations.

Team Collaboration:

Effective communication and collaboration with team members are essential for data sharing, experimental planning, and project coordination.

Candidates should be aware that the physical demands listed above are general guidelines and may vary depending on the specific role and workplace. It is important for applicants to inquire further about the physical requirements during the interview process to ensure they can perform the job safely and effectively.

Benefits

Eitr reasonably expects the annual base compensation for this role to be between $76,000 and $96,000. Subject to certain terms and conditions, the role will be eligible for a generous PTO policy including vacation, sick, and holiday time, 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage, and up to 6% 401(k) contributions.

Eitr is committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state, or local law. The information collected by this application is solely to determine suitability for employment, verify identity, and maintain employment statistics on applicants.

Eitr is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

Eitr is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as H, L, TN, F, J, E, O.