Senior Research Associate

Senior Research Associate
Location San Carlos Employment Type Full time Location Type On-site Department Affinity Reagent Development Compensation
$86K - $127K • Offers Equity The hiring pay range for this position is based on skills, education and experience relevant to the role; title may be assessed one level lower or higher, accordingly. Other components of total compensation include a competitive options grant at the time of hire (with potential for additional grants). Benefits include medical, vision, and dental insurance, group and supplemental life insurance, 401k retirement plan, responsible (unlimited) paid time off, parental leave, and more. Overview
Application At Nautilus, we have a big and important mission: improve the health of millions by unleashing the potential of the proteome to accelerate drug development and enable a new world of precision and personalized medicine. We are developing a single-molecule protein analysis platform of unprecedented sensitivity, scale, and ease of use that we believe will democratize access to the proteome - one of the most dynamic and valuable sources of biological insight. To accomplish this, we are pursuing deep, hard science with an entrepreneurial mindset and creating a world-class team of builders, innovators, and dreamers across a wide range of disciplines. We are looking for a skilled and motivated Senior Research Associate to join our affinity reagent discovery team. In this role, you will be a hands-on contributor to discovery campaigns including affinity reagent selection and characterization — from library panning through functional validation. You will provide both technical depth and the flexibility in a fast-moving, multi-project environment. Responsibilities Execute and optimize phage display panning campaigns to identify and enrich antigen-specific affinity reagent clones Perform high-throughput screening and characterization using a variety of techniques, including ELISA, western blot, biolayer interferometry (BLI) and the Nautilus proteomics platform Carry out molecular cloning workflows supporting antibody reformatting, expression construct design, and recombinant protein production Culture mammalian cells (e.g., HEK293) for transient and stable protein expression Contribute to data recording, experiment tracking, and reagent management within a LIMS platform Present experimental results clearly and concisely to cross-functional teams Author and maintain SOPs, assay protocols, and other controlled documentation Take on dynamic task assignments across projects as team priorities evolve — a genuine willingness to wear multiple hats is essential Requirements Bachelor's degree or higher in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related life science field 4-6 years of hands-on laboratory experience, with demonstrated proficiency in antibody-based assay development and reagent characterization Direct experience with phage display or other affinity selection platforms Proficiency in ELISA, western blot, and at least one biophysical binding method (BLI or SPR) Practical experience with molecular cloning and mammalian cell culture Experience working within a LIMS or equivalent data management system Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent experiments Clear written and verbal communication skills; comfortable presenting data to diverse audiences Preferred Skills Experience with fluorescence microscopy and/or cell-based imaging assays Experience with automated liquid handling and magnetic bead-based workflows Prior experience in a fast-paced biotech or startup research setting