Research Associate II - Biology / Drug Discovery

2w2 weeks ago

Talus Bio

Seattle, US · Full-time · $70,000 – $85,000

About this role

Talus Bioscience, a venture-backed early-stage biotechnology company, is at the forefront of developing innovative therapies for incurable cancers. Driven by the belief that 'nothing is undruggable,' we harness cutting-edge proteomics and AI to unlock previously inaccessible targets. We combine functional proteomics, automated biology, and machine learning to target hard-to-treat transcription factor proteins driving cancer.

Talus Bio seeks a Research Associate II to join the Biology / Drug Discovery team full-time in Seattle (in-person role). This results-driven individual will support drug discovery programs targeting transcription factors implicated in cancer. They will design, execute, and analyze experiments to advance lead compounds through preclinical stages.

The role involves hit validation from primary screens using multiplex RT-qPCR, viability, and reporter assays. Responsibilities include extensive optimization, assay development, and medium-throughput testing across multiple projects. Work in a small preclinical biotech environment with a multidisciplinary team of scientists.

Join a pioneering team contributing to innovative cancer therapies from the ground up. Play a key role providing critical data for transformative discoveries. Naturally curious professionals eager for impact will thrive here.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, or a related field
2 years of hands-on research experience running RT-qPCR assays including selection and custom-design of oligos
Experience with cell culture techniques and handling of cancer cell lines
Master's degree with at least 1 year of experience in a similar role (alternate qualification)
Proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, CRISPR, and RNAi
Familiarity with cell-based assays including viability and reporter assays
Ability to multitask across multiple projects in drug discovery
Highly-motivated and able to work independently

Responsibilities

Conduct laboratory experiments to support the discovery and characterization of small molecules targeting transcription factors in cancer
Perform cell-based assays (e.g., cell viability, apoptosis, and reporter assays) to evaluate compound efficacy and mechanistic effects on transcription factors
Utilize molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, RT-qPCR, CRISPR, RNAi) to analyze gene expression and validate targets
Contribute to the design, optimization, and execution of assays for high-throughput screening and compound profiling
Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory notebooks and records in compliance with company policies
Collaborate effectively with team members to solve technical challenges and streamline workflows
Analyze/interpret experimental data and communicate the results and recommendations to other team members
Multitask and advance multiple projects at different stages simultaneously from assay development to compound screening