Research Associate (Molecular Biology / Protein Engineering)

TL;DR

Research Associate (Molecular Biology / Protein Engineering): Running protein expression, DNA assembly, and characterization workflows across cell-free, E. coli, and mammalian systems with an accent on high-throughput protocols and biophysical assays. Focus on troubleshooting expression issues, adapting bench protocols for robotic workflows, and analyzing experimental data like gels, chromatograms, and binding curves.

Location: Lausanne

Company

Building an automated lab that lets AI agents run biology experiments, powering wet lab workflows for biopharmas, AI labs, and techbio startups.

What you will do

• Run protein expression workflows in cell-free (PURE, lysate-based), E. coli, and mammalian systems.
• Execute high-throughput DNA synthesis and assembly protocols including PCR, Golden Gate, and Gibson.
• Perform binding and characterization assays such as BLI, SPR, thermostability, enzyme activity, and developability assays.
• Troubleshoot protein expression failures, misfolding, or aggregation issues.
• Prepare reagents, manage samples, track experiments in LabOS, and analyze data from gels, chromatograms, and binding curves.
• Collaborate with automation team to adapt bench protocols for robotic workflows.

Requirements

• BSc or MSc in molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, or related field; hands-on bench experience prioritized.
• Practical skills in PCR, cloning, gel electrophoresis, DNA purification.
• Protein expression experience in at least one system.
• Experience with DNA assembly methods (Golden Gate, Gibson, restriction cloning).
• Hands-on familiarity with biophysical techniques (BLI, SPR, plate readers, nanoDSF, HPLC-SEC, CE-SDS) – at least a few.
• Comfortable scripting in Python for data parsing, plate maps, or automation tasks.
• Organized, precise, strong work ethic in fast-paced environment.

Culture & Benefits

• Work in biology & production team scaling thousands of constructs weekly.
• Fast-paced startup environment with shifting priorities and autonomy.
• Full-time role in growing company supporting AI-driven wet lab demand.