Research Associate - Aptamer
About Level Zero
Level Zero is pioneering next-generation biosensor technology for precise, real-time monitoring of critical endocrine biomarkers. Recognised as one of the top 20 startups across all categories worldwide at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024 - and backed by top-tier organisations like SOSV and Entrepreneur First - we’re pushing the boundaries of biochemistry and nanotechnology to revolutionize personalised health.
Founded by two seasoned engineers, we bring extensive experience in R&D, technical innovation, and commercial strategy to transform the way people monitor their health. Our mission is bold: to revolutionise health management by delivering clinical-grade data directly to individuals, wherever they are.
We’re seeking driven innovators to join us in pushing the boundaries of biosensing and health tech, making personalised health monitoring a reality for everyone. To achieve this ambitious vision, we’re assembling the best team in the world - dedicated to turning cutting-edge science into life-changing, real-world solutions.
About this Role
We’re looking for a Research Associate to help drive aptamer discovery and early-stage biosensor R&D at Level Zero. Working closely with R&D and sensor design leadership, you’ll run SELEX campaigns for small-molecule targets, execute core wet-lab workflows (affinity chromatography, qPCR, gels, nucleic acid purification, NGS), design assays, write protocols, and combine experimental rigor with oligo design and bioinformatic analysis to identify and validate top aptamer candidates.
What you'll do
- Conduct SELEX experiments for small molecule targets to identify new aptamers, involving wet lab bio/chem processes including affinity chromatography, qPCR, PAGE gels, nucleic acid purification, and next-gen sequencing.
- Conduct nucleic acid oligo design and bioinformatic analyses to identify aptamer candidates
- Validate aptamer binding using methods such as Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC), Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), plate-based fluorescence assay, melt curve analysis and other methods.
- Contribute to early-stage R&D, design assays, write protocols, and collaborate with sensor design leadership to define and refine future directions
What You Bring
- A minimum of Bachelors degree or higher with at least 2 years of industry experience (full-time wet lab)
- Proficiency in nucleic acid chemical biology workflows or molecular biology workflows such as affinity chromatography, qPCR, PAGE gels, nucleic acid purification, or binding assays (SPR, ITC, fluorescence, ELONA).
- Knowledge or experience in the handling and study of hydrophobic compounds (e.g., hormones), the handling and study of bio-fluids, and the development of simulated bio-fluid model solutions, biosensing principles, & nucleic acid chemical biology.
- Bioinformatics experience, Bash, Python, R languages, next-gen seq data processing, sequence motif analysis, nucleic acid 2D-prediction, or nucleic acid design (e.g., primer design).
- Knowledge or experience next-gen sequencing and Illumina systems, nucleic acid synthesis and purification.
- Knowledge or experience with biophysical characterization, ITC, SPR, CD spectroscopy, biosensing, fluorescence characterization approaches, or macromolecular structural characterization using NMR, SAXS, docking or MD simulations
- Prior work in a start-up or small company environment
The ideal candidate must have:
Nice to have:
Who You Are
- You highly value integrity and tackling challenges with honesty and transparency.
- You’re a self-starter who loves diving into the unknown, collaborating on complex problems, and taking full ownership of results.
- You excel at open, clear communication and see every piece of feedback as a springboard for growth-especially in a science and data-focused environment.
- You’re motivated by creating real impact, particularly when it comes to advancing human health.
- You strike a balance between independence and collaboration, knowing when to seek support or invite others to join in.
- You’re confident in defending your ideas, while also valuing respectful, constructive debate as a path to better solutions.
- You thrive in the dynamic atmosphere of a startup, constantly evolving your skill set and fearlessly applying what you learn.
We value culture as much as we value technical expertise, creating an environment that’s equal parts collaboration, curiosity, and fun.
We’re a fast-paced, mission-driven young team on a quest to make a lasting impact, fueled by uncompromising integrity, unwavering support for one another, and the thrill of exploring uncharted territories. Our passion for excellence drives everything we do, and we welcome individuals who share our commitment to shaping the future.
If our vision excites you, here are the qualities we look for:
What we offer
- A full-time role with a competitive salary and equity options, reflecting our value in your expertise and potential.
- An environment where you’ll collaborate directly with the founding team at a leading biosensor startup, gaining access to industry experts and thought leaders.
- The chance to grow with us, including ample opportunities for leadership, career advancement, and exploration.
- Travel to New York and other potential sites for R&D purposes.
- The excitement of working on cutting-edge technology, shaping strategic decisions, and driving innovation at an early-stage venture alongside a superstar team.