Senior Research Associate / Scientist, Proteomics Sample Prep

What we are looking for in you

We're seeking a hands-on, detail-oriented Senior Research Associate / Scientist I to join our proteomics team and help scale our sample processing capacity. Sample volume is growing quickly, and we need someone who can take on the day-to-day execution of tissue and cell sample preparation and mass spec operation.

Reporting to our principal proteomics scientist, you'll spend most of your time at the bench. You'll follow established SOPs closely, prepare and run high volumes of samples, and help keep our Astral mass spec calibrated, well-maintained, and running smoothly. This is a wonderful opportunity to gain hands-on training on the Orbitrap Astral Zoom + Vanquish Neo platform from an experienced mass spec scientist, and growing ownership of the workflow as our automated systems come fully online.

This is a full-time, exempt, in-person position with work conducted at our Berkeley, CA location.

What you’ll do

Sample Preparation & Protein Enrichment 

• Prepare tissue and cell samples for mass spectrometry–based proteomics, including precise tissue dissection and cell pellet processing
• Execute established protein and peptide enrichment strategies, including cell-surface labeling and immunopeptidomics workflows
• Follow validated protocols for protein extraction and purification across a range of sample types
• Utilize automation to achieve a sample throughput at 96x plate format scale.

Mass Spectrometry & Analytical Platforms

• Learn Orbitrap Astral Zoom operation and troubleshooting
• Operate and maintain the Orbitrap Astral Zoom, including routine instrument calibration
• Follow established SOPs closely to ensure consistent, reliable instrument performance

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with the proteomics and cross-functional teams to keep sample processing on schedule
• Document methods and maintain SOPs to support consistent, reproducible results
• Communicate proactively, surfacing issues early rather than letting them surface downstream

What you need

:

• Industry or Academic experience relevant to the role and a degree in Proteomics, Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or a related field including:
• • BS/MS with 2+/0+ years (Senior Research Associate)
  • BS/MS with 4+/2+ years (Scientist I)
• Hands-on experience with LC–MS/MS–based proteomics
• Experience processing precious, complex clinical samples to include tissue dissection and cell pellet handling
• Demonstrated experience in sample preparation, protein extraction, and enrichment strategies (chemical biology/enrichment strategies preferred)
• Familiarity with data independent acquisition (DIA)
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work seamlessly with colleagues from diverse scientific and technical backgrounds
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with evolving priorities
• Occasional weekend availability required (~1-2 hours) 

Nice to have:

• Experience with Thermo Orbitrap mass specs and Vanquish Neo LCs
• Experience with cell surface proteomics or chemical labeling approaches
• Familiarity with immunopeptidomics workflows (MHC-I/MHC-II)
• Experience with performing LC-MS/MS on low-input samples (single-cell, spatial proteomics, immunopeptidomics)
• Familiarity with high-throughput proteomics workflows,  automation and sample multiplexing
• Understanding of protein chemistry, post-translational modifications, and quantitative proteomics
• Basic knowledge of bioinformatics tools or scripting (e.g., R, Python)

We’re looking for a teammate that:

• Navigates complex team dynamics, partnerships, and challenges with creativity and logic.
• Operates with adaptability, urgency, and flexibility in evolving environments, thriving in ambiguity.
• Drives work forward without needing to be asked, taking responsibility for outcomes rather than tasks.
• Treats obstacles as problems to be creatively solved, not reasons something can’t be done.
• Applies sound judgment to the best available information, testing, learning, and iterating.
• Shares early and directly when assumptions change, results are unclear, or timelines are at risk.

What you can expect from this role

Work environment:

• Collaborative culture where your ideas and expertise are valued

Professional growth:

• Learn from a diverse team of world-class scientists and engineers
• Opportunity to learn and operate state-of-the-art proteomics instruments

Compensation

Estimated Base Salary $82,000-$129,150

This is the pay range for this position that we reasonably expect to pay. Individual compensation is based on various factors including, experience, education, skillset, and geographic location. This range is for the SF Bay Area, California location and may be adjusted to the labor market in other geographic areas.