Research Associate, Applied Cell Line Development & Customer Programs

We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to help advance our mammalian cell line development and protein production capabilities. At Prolific, we use light to control the expression of biotherapeutic proteins, with the goal of increasing titer and improving quality attributes. In this role, you will play a key part in generating and characterizing cell lines that support both internal research and customer programs. The ideal candidate enjoys hands-on laboratory work, takes pride in delivering consistent, high-quality results, and is eager to learn and grow in a fast-paced startup environment. You’ll collaborate with scientists and engineers across multiple disciplines, with opportunities to expand your technical expertise, take on increasing ownership, and contribute directly to Prolific’s success. This role is based on-site in our headquarters in Emeryville, CA.

Responsibilities:

• Own and drive workflows using mammalian cell culture, primarily working with suspension HEK and suspension CHO
• Generate stable cell lines via transfection (ie electroporation) and selection as well as serving as the primary technical owner of many genetically distinct cell lines at once
• Handle protein production workflows at different scales - deep well plates and shake flasks, potentially including small scale bioreactors such as the Ambr system
• Execute downstream readouts such as cell counting (Celleca, nucleocounter), metabolite measurements (Nova / CEDEX), Octet BLI, flow cytometry
• Perform single cell isolation using methods such as FACS, cell deposition, or Beacon
• Execute plasmid cloning and molecular biology techniques including PCR and ddPCR
• Conduct experiments independently, collect and analyze data in a timely manner, maintain detailed documentation in electronic lab notebooks, and data visualization and presentation in team meetings

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, or a related field, with relevant laboratory experience in mammalian cell culture. Candidates will be considered at the Research Associate I, Research Associate II, and Senior Research Associate levels based on their experience, technical proficiency, and demonstrated independence.
• Proficient in mammalian cell culture, preferably with experience in cell line development, and are well versed in sterile technique, transfection, and clone isolation
• Comfortable with readouts such as cell counting, metabolite measurement, Octet BLI and flow cytometry
• Comfortable with developing and proposing experimental plans, conducting experiments, and troubleshooting analytical techniques and methodologies
• Proficient in precisely following protocols, designing and executing experiments independently, and managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced setting
• Self-starter who’s committed to team science and effective independent work
• Strong organizational skills with an interest in creating and maintaining organizational infrastructure for both lab experiments and with data analysis
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Excitement for working in a fast-paced startup environment and comfort with evolving project scopes and shifting priorities

We recognize that strong candidates may not meet every preferred qualification. If you have a solid foundation in mammalian cell culture, a commitment to high-quality laboratory work, and enthusiasm for learning, we encourage you to apply.