Research Associate, HSC Reprogramming

As a Research Associate at Retro in HSC Reprogramming, your main responsibilities will include performing mammalian cell cultures, differentiating iPSCs, and conducting a variety of assays to characterize cells and validate their functionality. Additionally, you will assist in processing mouse tissues, maintain an electronic lab notebook, and ensure the lab has all necessary reagents, thereby contributing significantly to the lab's productivity and innovation.

To qualify for the Research Associate role at Retro, candidates should possess at least a B.S. in Biology or a related field, with a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience, or an M.S. degree with at least 1 year of post-degree experience in a research setting. Practical experience with tissue culture techniques, molecular assays, and strong attention to detail are essential for success in this position.

Key skills for a Research Associate in HSC Reprogramming at Retro include proficiency in prioritization and time management, experience with tissue culture and mouse processing techniques, strong communication skills, and a collaborative mindset. Additionally, being detail-oriented, organized, and possessing a can-do attitude will greatly benefit your work environment.

In the Research Associate position at Retro, you will perform cell-based and molecular assays, such as measuring gene expression using ddPCR and executing DNA and RNA extraction for NGS analysis. These assays are crucial for characterizing the iPSC-derived HSCs you will be working with, allowing the team to demonstrate the therapeutic potential of their cellular therapies.

The Research Associate position at Retro offers a competitive salary ranging from $85,000 to $110,000 annually, in addition to a total compensation package that includes generous equity and comprehensive benefits. These benefits encompass medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with matching, flexible time off, and a stipend for learning and development, ensuring our employees are well-supported in both their professional and personal pursuits.

When answering this question, detail specific techniques you've used in culturing iPSCs, any challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. Highlight your familiarity with maintaining sterile conditions and the protocols you've followed to ensure a consistent environment for your iPSC cultures.

Provide an example of a high-pressure situation where you've successfully prioritized tasks. Discuss your approach to assessing deadlines and importance, and how you communicate with team members to ensure clarity and efficiency in your work.

Describe your experience with maintaining an electronic lab notebook, and any specific techniques you use to ensure data accuracy. Emphasize the importance of meticulous documentation in maintaining laboratory standards and reproducibility.

Discuss specific molecular assays you have experience with, such as ddPCR or NGS. Share any projects where you utilized these techniques and the outcomes you achieved. Show your enthusiasm for quantitative analysis and the role it plays in research.

Express your belief in open communication and diverse perspectives as crucial elements of successful teamwork. Provide an example of how you've previously worked with team members from different backgrounds to achieve a common goal, highlighting the importance of collaboration in achieving research objectives.

Discuss your approach to resolving conflicts through active listening and finding common ground among differing views. Stress the importance of professional respect and the shared goal of advancing research, which can often lead to innovative solutions.

Detail your training in flow cytometry, any specific experiments you've conducted using this technique, and what you learned from those experiences. Highlight your ability to analyze data and its significance in cellular characterization.

Talk about your standard operating procedures and any quality control measures you implement in experiments. Emphasize your commitment to scientific integrity and the steps you take to minimize errors throughout the research process.

Share a specific instance where a protocol change occurred and how you adapted. Focus on your ability to learn quickly and implement new methodologies efficiently while maintaining the integrity of the research.

Articulate your passion for aging research, perhaps drawing on personal experiences or historical breakthroughs that sparked your interest. Speak to how you see your role contributing to advancements that can improve human health and longevity, emphasizing your enthusiasm for the mission of Retro.