Research Associate, Translational Models and Genetic Tools

Drug Discovery           ·        Seattle, WA        ·       Full time

Job Description.

Cajal is seeking a Research Associate II motivated by Cajal’s mission to develop new medicines for patients suffering with neurodegenerative disorders. We are a multi-disciplinary team of experienced scientists, combining state-of-the-art approaches in computational biology, functional genomics, high-throughput imaging, translational models, and drug discovery. In a short time, we have assembled a terrific team of talented, innovative, and passionate individuals to transform the field of neurodegeneration drug discovery. We aim to identify novel drug targets based on a deeper understanding into the spatiotemporal progression of disease and translate those discoveries into therapeutics that change the course of neurodegeneration. Cajal is now expanding to establish a world-class drug discovery organization.

As a Research Associate II at Cajal, you will assist in the design and production of viral and genetic tools to support the translational models and functional genomics groups and use molecular biology, cloning, and tissue culture techniques. These teams are integral to our platforms to find new therapeutic targets for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Responsibilities:

• Collaboratively work across teams to design new adeno-associated viral vectors (AAV), which we use as tools to alter gene expression in in vivo and in vitro research models
• Clone DNA plasmids for new viral vectors (restriction digest and ligation cloning, Gibson Assembly, DNA sequencing and alignment analysis, DNA plasmid preparation)
• Assist with AAV production, isolation, and quality control (qPCR, western blotting and ELISA)
• Optimize and develop protocols for AAV production pipeline

This job might be great for you if you:

• 2+ years of directly related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
• have a BA, BS, MS or equivalent in a biology-related field
• have experience cloning plasmid DNA (experience designing and cloning viral vectors, such as AAV, is a plus)
• have experience in a variety of cellular and molecular techniques such as plasmid preparation, DNA sequencing, qPCR, cell culture, western blotting, etc.
• are excited about learning and implementing novel techniques like single-cell sequencing and CRISPR
• are detail-oriented and thrive in a highly collaborative, team-oriented startup environment
• love working in the lab, are organized, and take pride in your work

Important Considerations

• Cajal operates as a hybrid workplace, but in this lab-focused role the Research Associate will primarily work on-site at our Seattle offices. 
• The annual base salary range for this role is $68,000 – $78,000 *

*Final salary depends on qualifications, experience, and level of skills relevant to the role, along with location, where applicable.

Company.

Cajal is a team of people first, motivated by our shared mission to advance the field of neurodegeneration. We are committed to ensuring that all our team members feel supported, connected, and energized at work. Our team members eagerly navigate the uncertainty and fast-paced environment of an early-stage biotech company and thrive on getting things done. We value creativity and curiosity in our work, and we take pride in the generosity, sincerity, and kindness of our team members.

Benefits include:

• Competitive compensation based on experience level
• Health insurance: 100% coverage of premiums for employee, partner, & all dependents
• Dental insurance: 100% of premiums
• Vision insurance: 100% of premiums
• Life insurance: 100% of premiums for 2x salary coverage
• Access to Flexible Spending Account
• 401(K) Plan with matching contributions
• 5 weeks paid time off plus 13 company holidays (2 floating)
• 8 weeks parental leave for primary caregiver or 4 weeks for secondary caregiver in additional to WA Paid Family & Medical Leave (up to 12 additional weeks)
• Generous commuter benefits including free metro cards, on site locker rooms/showers/towel service, modern bike cage and free bike tunes

Located in the Eastlake neighborhood of Seattle, Cajal sits at the heart of a vibrant biotech community, directly between research giants such as the Allen Institute and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. We are surrounded by fellow innovative biotech companies and startups and within a stone’s throw of the beautiful Lake Union and the University of Washington. Our newly renovated office and labs offer ample natural light and stunning views of the Space Needle downtown. Our kitchen is fully stocked with coffee, tea, and snacks. All desks are sit-stand for maximal comfort and our meeting rooms seamlessly support hybrid teams.

Cajal is an equal opportunity employer that guarantees a work environment that respects and values diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. If you require any accommodations during the recruiting process, please contact careers@cajalneuro.com. 

To the extent permitted by applicable law, employment is conditioned upon full vaccination (per CDC guidelines) from the COVID-19 virus, including submission of documented proof thereof, as of the start date. Cajal will comply with applicable law regarding the reasonable accommodation of individuals who are not vaccinated because of a disability and/or sincerely held religious belief.

To Apply

Please send an email with your CV and cover letter to careers@cajalneuro.com.

Please click here to apply.