Research Assistant

Job description

Cambridge, MA · In-Person · Contractor-to-Full-Time **About Us** GT Biosciences is building Deliveromics, the world’s first AI-powered, high-throughput, and multiplexed in vivo data engine for decoding the design rules of drug delivery. Founded by MIT scientists and backed by top-tier investors, we are creating next-generation non-viral, cell-type-specific delivery vehicles for mRNA and siRNA. We are a tightly-knit, fast-moving, and science-driven team dedicated to making routine in vivo cell reprogramming a reality. We value transparency, collaboration, reliability, and scientific rigor, and seek teammates who thrive in an open, cooperative environment and want to grow together with the team and the company. **Job Description** GT Biosciences is seeking a highly motivated and dependable Research Associate to join our Platform Development Team and support lipid nanoparticle formulation and RNA delivery. This is a hands-on laboratory role designed for someone eager to learn, take some ownership, and grow within a fast-moving, science-obsessed startup environment. **Interview Process** The interview process includes two virtual interviews and one onsite interview. Selected candidates may then be invited to participate in a paid working trial lasting up to 30 calendar days. Continued employment will depend on performance, reliability, and mutual fit. From day one, you will work directly alongside scientists with world-leading expertise in RNA delivery, LNP engineering, in vivo screening, and translational biotechnology. **Our commitment is to teach you new methods and help you build a broad wet-lab skill set.** Your job is to learn quickly, execute carefully, and keep going when experiments are difficult. We’re looking for someone eager to learn and improve in a fast-paced environment. This is an in-person position based in Cambridge, MA. **Responsibilities** - Prepare and formulate lipid nanoparticles and related non-viral delivery systems for mRNA and siRNA using established and evolving protocols. - Support formulation screens by varying lipid composition, component ratios, buffers, mixing conditions, and other process parameters. - Perform formulation characterization and quality control measurements (e.g., particle size, PDI, encapsulation efficiency, RNA concentration, pH, and fluorescence-based assays). - Prepare high-quality formulations and samples for in vitro and in vivo studies, including dose calculations, labeling, quality control, and sample tracking. - Maintain basic cell culture responsibilities and support transfection, expression, and knockdown assays as required. - Handle precision liquid-handling tasks with accuracy and care (e.g., multichannel pipetting, reagent pooling, serial dilutions). - Keep meticulous laboratory records and documentation, troubleshoot experiments thoughtfully, and repeat work carefully when results do not meet expectations. **Qualifications** **Required** - B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field. - At least 1+ years of meaningful hands-on experience in a wet laboratory setting (academic or industry). - Demonstrated reliability, attention to detail, and strong commitment to accurate, thorough record-keeping. - Proficiency with basic laboratory techniques (e.g., buffer preparation, serial dilution, accurate pipetting, and nucleic acid handling). - A fast learner who is excited to develop unfamiliar wet-lab skills and become progressively more independent. - Persistence when experiments fail, with the ability to stay calm, investigate possible causes, and improve the next attempt. - A proactive, team-first attitude with strong ownership, clear communication, and consistent follow-through. - Ability to work onsite five days per week at our Cambridge, MA location. **Preferred** - Exposure to lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, nanoparticle formulation, drug delivery, or microfluidic mixing. - Experience handling RNA, including mRNA, siRNA, or other oligonucleotides. - Experience with DLS, plate readers, UV spectroscopy, HPLC/UPLC, LC-MS, pH, osmolality, or endotoxin testing. - Experience with mammalian cell culture, sterile technique, transfection, or cell-based assays. - Experience with fluorescence microscopy or plate reader operation. - Exposure to nucleic acid-based assays (e.g., hybridization, ligation, or amplification workflows). - Basic cell culture skills (e.g., mammalian cell passaging, sterile technique). - Proficiency with basic molecular biology techniques (e.g., running gels, making buffers, using DNA/RNA extraction kits). **Nice to Have** - Basic coding or data analysis skills (e.g., Python, R, or Excel for data organization). - Familiarity with automated liquid handling or high-throughput screening platforms. - Experience preparing formulations or samples for animal studies. - Mouse intravenous injection, perfusion, or tissue collection experience. - Strong interest in RNA medicines, drug delivery, and central nervous system therapeutics. **Compensation:** Estimated Contractor Rate: $22-$40 per hour (depending on experience) **What we offer:** - Flexible, generous health benefits upon conversion to full-time employment. - Work with a small, world-leading team that values rigorous science and candid collaboration. - Learn directly from experts. - Rapid professional growth through hands-on training and meaningful scientific ownership.