NewLimit
Senior/Research Associate, mRNA Engineering
$75K–$100K
South San Francisco +1 · Senior · Full-time · Posted Oct 20, 2026
- Location
- South San Francisco
South San Francisco, California, United States - Experience
- 1–2 years of relevant full-time industry or academic research experience with a B.S., or an M.S. in Life Sciences.
- Education
- B.S. in Life Sciences, Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field, or M.S. in Life Sciences.
About the job
Produces research-grade mRNA from DNA templates through in vitro transcription and purification, while supporting process optimization, documentation, and coordination with research teams.
What you'll do
- Prepare DNA templates, perform in vitro transcription and purification, and run assays to assess mRNA integrity and purity.
- Maintain experimental records, SOPs, inventory, equipment, and lab safety practices.
- Coordinate mRNA handoffs with research teams and present results at team meetings.
What they ask for
- B.S. in Life Sciences, Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field with 1–2 years of relevant full-time research experience, or an M.S. in Life Sciences.
- Hands-on molecular biology experience, including cloning, nucleic acid purification, PCR, and gel electrophoresis.
- Strong attention to detail, accurate documentation, and ability to execute protocols and manage multiple tasks.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills; interest in mRNA process science and eagerness to learn.
Nice to have
- Experience producing mRNA through IVT and downstream purification.
- Familiarity with plasmid and mRNA analytics, plasmid DNA preparation and linearization, column-based purification, TFF, or liquid-handling automation.
Pay
$75,000 - $100,000 USD base salary
Tools
in vitro transcription (IVT), PCR, HPLC, UV-Vis, TapeStation/CGE, tangential flow filtration (TFF), Hamiltons, Tecans
Model-written summary · the original posting is authoritative