Research Associate​/SRA; Glaucoma

Overview

Character Biosciences is a precision medicine company pioneering targeted therapies for polygenic diseases, with an initial focus on ophthalmology. Our patient data platform integrates genomics with deep, longitudinal clinical and imaging data to uncover genetic drivers of disease progression, advance novel therapeutics, and define patient stratification strategies that improve clinical success.

Our interdisciplinary team comprises experts in clinical science, data science, statistical genetics, computer vision, and drug discovery, using this platform to determine genetic drivers of disease progression and to advance therapeutics and genetics-based patient stratification. We are advancing two programs in Dry Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) with additional programs in other disease areas (e.g., Glaucoma) in earlier stages of discovery research.

The company, founded in 2018, has raised capital from leading investors and maintains a multi-target drug discovery collaboration with Bausch + Lomb.

Role: Research Associate/ Senior Research Associate (Glaucoma)

Reports to: Director, Drug Discovery

Department: Scientific R&D

Team: Drug Discovery

Level: Associate

Location: Brisbane, CA

We are seeking a talented and highly motivated Research Associate/Senior Research Associate to join our Glaucoma Drug Discovery team. In this role, you will develop in vitro disease models and perform cell-based and other in vitro assays to elucidate target biology, identify lead candidates, and assess their mechanisms of action. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the discovery and development of novel therapeutics and to grow your career in a dynamic, thriving biotech startup.

This role is ideal for someone with hands-on experience in neuronal and glial cell culture who is looking to make a difference in our fight to preserve vision.

This is an on-site laboratory position located at Brisbane, CA.

• Engineer, maintain, and differentiate iPSC-derived and/or primary human neurons and glia for disease modeling
• Develop and perform cell-based functional assays and in vitro assays, including high-content cell imaging, ELISA, qPCR, immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry
• Independently plan, execute and troubleshoot experiments and collaborate effectively with team members to solve problems
• Coordinate tasks across multiple projects and keep meticulous records
• Organize, analyze and communicate results in team meetings

• BS with 3+ years (or MS with 1+ years) of research experience in neurobiology, stem cell biology or related discipline
• Must be nimble and able to work with changing priorities
• Must have hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture, assay development, ELISA, and fluorescent microscopy
• Experience with iPSC-derived neurons and glia is highly desirable
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Must have excellent troubleshooting, organizational and communication skills

The annual pay range for this full-time position is $85,000-$105,000, depending upon level and experience. This salary range represents the expected base compensation for this role and may vary based on factors including experience, skills, and level.

Benefits include a competitive salary, strong equity incentives, medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and accrued paid time off policy. Character is committed to recruiting, developing, and supporting colleagues from all backgrounds. We embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion as an integral part of our culture.

Character Biosciences is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.