Senior Research Associate, Foundry (Contract)

Your experience includes… 

• BS in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or related field with 2+ years of industry experience; or MS in these fields with 0-2 years of industry experience
• Strong foundation in molecular biology techniques and cloning workflows
• Expertise in different cloning methodologies such as Gibson, Golden-Gate, and Site-Directed Mutagenesis (SDM)
• Execution of end-to-end plasmid workflows including design, assembly, transformation, screening, and sequence verification
• Performing plasmid QC (DNA quantification, Sanger sequencing, and residual protein) and maintaining inventory for downstream applications
• Proficiency with software tools such as Benchling, Geneious, or similar
• Accurate record keeping of experimental data and maintenance of detailed electronic notebooks
• Adhere to laboratory safety guidelines, SOPs, and regulatory requirements
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a collaborative team
• Experience with automated liquid handlers and high-throughput workflows is preferred

You are interested in… 

• Contribute to the optimization and continuous improvement of DNA production workflows and processes
• Perform DNA assembly, analyze and interpret experimental data, and ensure accurate reporting and documentation
• Collaborate with the automation team to develop, optimize, and implement laboratory protocols
• Work cross-functionally with R&D, analytical, and bioinformatics teams to support project objectives and timelines
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to the planning and execution of new initiatives and projects
• Stay current with advancements in DNA technologies and molecular biology research
• Support day-to-day laboratory operations by maintaining equipment, managing inventory, and coordinating the ordering and receiving of laboratory supplies

About you: 

You are driven, motivated, and passionate about working at the forefront of RNA technology, contributing to groundbreaking research. You excel in both independent and team environments, possess impeccable attention to detail, and thrive in a fast-paced setting. Candidates without automation experience are still encouraged to apply.

Tessera employees are creative and collaborative problem solvers. They have a strong sense of integrity and unwavering commitment to scientific excellence. 

Meet your Manager:

All inquiries regarding the posted position should be directed to the Talent Partner (see below). Interested individuals must apply directly to be considered for the opening. 

Simran Bawa, Senior Scientist, Foundry

Originally from India, Simran earned her PhD from Kansas State University. She later joined St. Jude Children's Research Hospital as a postdoctoral fellow before joining Tessera Therapeutics in 2022. At Tessera, her work focuses on streamlining and optimizing high-throughput DNA and RNA production to support platform and program development. Outside of work, Simran enjoys hiking and reading.

Meet your Talent Partner:

Ben Hoogheem – Senior Director, Head of Talent Management

As Head of Talent Management at Tessera Therapeutics, Ben leads Tessera’s talent strategy across talent acquisition, performance management, and talent mobility.

Ben began his career as an in vivo Pharmacologist, which gave him a lasting appreciation for the rigor, creativity, and collaboration that drive scientific discovery. That foundation continues to shape how he helps build organizations designed to enable science thrive.

Ben is focused on aligning exceptional people with bold science – creating the structure, clarity, and culture that empower teams to scale effectively and achieve meaningful impact.

Compensation:

The stated pay range represents Tessera’s good-faith estimate for this role. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors, including but not limited to individual qualifications, years of relevant experience, internal compensation alignment, and external market data.

Pay Range: $44.00 - $50.00 USD per hour