What we are looking for in you

We are seeking a curious, hands-on scientist for an Assay Research Scientist position. Reporting to the Director of Assay Development, you will establish novel assay workflows, define the requirements for new components such as beads, surface chemistries, and sample prep approaches, and develop proxy assays that predict multi-cycle ProSE performance. You will work at the interface of molecular biology, chemistry, bioinformatics, and automation, partnering closely with the Chemistry and Integration teams.

The ideal candidate can connect assay outcomes to the physical and chemical mechanisms behind them, and translate those insights into clear requirements for new components. 

In this role, you will have the unique opportunity to shape how our ProSE platform evolves. Replacing slow, empirical testing with predictive, mechanistically grounded assays that will help us build and improve our protein sequencing technology faster and with greater confidence, and move us toward our mission to revolutionize life science discovery.

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

What you’ll do

• Design, plan, and execute experiments to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and scalability of Glyphic’s protein sequencing by expansion (ProSE) process.
• Establish novel assay workflows and determine the requirements for novel components needed to support them.
• Develop proxy assays that isolate workflow and component variables, accelerating integrated solutions and predicting multi-cycle performance without a full end-to-end run.
• Propose, design, and test novel analytical approaches to optimize and build predictive understanding of critical components of the ProSE sequencing process including sample preparation, molecular expansion chemistry, automation, and the integration of these components into a robust end-to-end assay.
• Correlate assay findings to the physical characteristics of the system using multimodal characterization, and connect assay outcomes and mechanistic understanding to new component requirements.
• Proactively identify, communicate, and help address experimental risks or resource gaps, such as reagent supply or instrument issues.
• Partner with peers on the Assay Development team to deliver team goals and prioritize experiments accordingly.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers on the Chemistry, Assay Integration, Automation and Bioinformatics teams to define shared requirements and contribute to cross-functional projects.
• Collect, manage, and analyze data from molecular biology and protein sequencing experiments.
• Keep a detailed electronic lab notebook on Confluence.
• Communicate and present results in a timely manner.

What you need

Required:

• Post-graduate experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry or related fields, including a:
  • BS/MS/PhD with 10+/8+/6+ years (for Staff Scientist)
  • BS/MS/PhD with 8+/6+/4+ years (for Senior Scientist)
• Track record of establishing novel assay workflows for highly sensitive molecular assays (e.g., PCR-free sequencing, single-cell assays), with clear evidence of ownership and innovation.
• Hands-on history of defining what a new component (e.g., beads, oligos, chemical handles, surface properties, molecular biology reagents) must do, and turning assay results into specifications that drive its selection or design.
• Demonstrated ability to design simple, mechanistically defined test systems that stand in for full-length experiments and let you pinpoint which variable is responsible when performance changes.
• Comprehensive understanding of molecular biology tools used for high-sensitivity applications.
• Strong foundation in nucleic acid and peptide chemistry, including the ability to identify common sources of damage (such as oxidation, depurination, and hydrolysis) and methods to avoid or mitigate these effects.
• Fluency in multimodal characterization (e.g., fluorescence, flow cytometry, zeta potential, bead or surface metrology) and in linking those physical measurements to assay performance.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and strong attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse scientific and technical backgrounds.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with evolving priorities.

Nice to have:

• Hands-on experience with nanopore or other single-molecule detection platforms and the requirements they place on input material.
• Experience with statistical analysis of mixed-effects and replicated data, establishing quantitative agreement between proxy measurements and real data.
• Experience with LC-MS and HPLC for characterizing biomolecules.
• Experience with bead-based automation on instruments such as KingFisher or Hamilton.
• Familiarity with accelerated or repeated-exposure stability testing.
• Familiarity with emerging trends and techniques in proteomic measurements.

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; and bold, innovative thinking is encouraged
• Direct impact on product development and company direction
• Access to cutting-edge technology in a top tier life science facility

Professional growth:

• Play a key role in producing patents and publications with significant impact on the field of biological research
• Opportunities for advancement and expanding responsibilities as the organization scales

Compensation

Estimated Base Salary $123,000 - $187,575

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.