Research Associate II/Senior Research Associate

Research Associate II/Senior Research Associate – RNA Manufacturing

Eclipse Bioinnovations is seeking a Research Associate to join our team in San Diego. Eclipse Bioinnovations is a rapidly growing RNA-centric biotech company. We design, build, and characterize RNA for our partners to ensure success of new RNA medicines. As a small company, everyone on our team plays a key role and is expected to make a significant contribution to our growth and success.

This role is part of Eclipse’s RNA manufacturing function, which operates across the San Diego and remote teams. The Research Associate will work closely with senior scientific leadership to receive project assignments, quality standards, and technical guidance, while also collaborating with colleagues for day-to-day laboratory operations.

This is a production-focused role (~90%) with a meaningful but limited R&D component (~10%). The right candidate will thrive in the rhythm of hands-on bench work – executing the construction of plasmid DNA constructs and mRNA via in vitro transcription and characterizing these molecules through analytical workflows – while contributing to process improvement and development projects as they arise.

This role offers strong opportunities to build scientific depth and project management skills through collaboration with senior scientists and cross-functional teams.

Summary

Title

Research Associate II/Senior Research Associate

Department

RNA Manufacturing

Location

San Diego

Job Type

Full-time

Job description

Plasmid DNA Construction & Production

  • Build plasmid DNA constructs using multiple assembly methods, primarily Gibson Assembly
  • Perform bacterial transformation of assembly reactions and NGS-based clone screening
  • Inoculate and isolate plasmid DNA at various scales via mini-, midi-, and maxi-prep workflows
  • Coordinate outsourced DNA production efforts with external vendors as needed

Sequencing & Quality Checkpoints

  • Execute standard sequencing workflows as part of DNA-level quality control checkpoints
  • Manage sequencing workflows performed by external vendors, ensuring timely and accurate results

mRNA Production & Quality Analysis

  • Plan and execute in vitro transcription (IVT) workflows, including multiple RNA purification methods and alternate chemistries
  • Coordinate with scientific and business leadership to ensure production methodology meets customer requirements
  • Conduct RNA-level quality analysis using spectrography, capillary electrophoresis, and additional advanced QC readouts
  • Aggregate quality data into certificate of test reports for customer deliverables

Process Development & Improvement

  • Contribute to development projects aimed at improving existing production methodology and establishing new processes (~10% of role)
  • Execute custom analytical processes in support of customer projects

General

  • Work autonomously in a wet-lab environment, exercising sound judgment on when to escalate technical issues
  • Maintain strong organizational practices and attention to detail across all production efforts, including tracking work through project management tools (e.g., Jira)
  • Proactively monitor and replenish material stocks to avoid disruptions
  • Identify quality issues early in the production process and flag them appropriately
  • Collaborate with senior scientists and cross-functional teams, with opportunities to engage in adjacent production and R&D functions including bespoke sequencing assays and mammalian cell culture
  • Communicate progress and escalations effectively across remote and on-site team members

Requirements

  • B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or a related discipline
  • Demonstrated proficiency in standard molecular biology techniques, including solid pipetting skills
  • Track record of independently planning and executing laboratory-based projects
  • Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail
  • Willingness to learn new techniques and operate effectively in ambiguous or evolving situations
  • Comfortable communicating with remote team members and receiving technical direction across sites
  • Ability to work on-site in San Diego, CA

This is an on-site, wet-lab position. The role requires the ability to stand for extended periods, perform repetitive fine motor tasks (e.g., pipetting), lift up to 25 lbs, and work in proximity to standard laboratory chemicals, biological materials, and equipment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Experience with plasmid construction methods (e.g., Gibson Assembly, Golden Gate)
  • Familiarity with in vitro transcription workflows and RNA handling
  • Exposure to analytical techniques such as capillary electrophoresis or UV/Vis spectrometry
  • Experience working in a production or GMP-adjacent laboratory environment
  • Comfort coordinating with external vendors and cross-functional stakeholders
  • Experience with project tracking software such as Jira, Asana, or similar tools

Benefits and Salary

Salary Range: $75,000 – $95,000

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Paid time off

We offer competitive salary commensurate with candidate’s experience, and an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401K and paid time off.

Ready to join Eclipsebio? Apply with a CV and cover letter to jobs@eclipsebio.com with SRAIIRM26 in the subject line.

Eclipsebio is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. To learn more about our hiring process click here.