Research Associate, Applied Cell Line Development & Customer Programs

About the role

Prolific Machines is ushering in a new era of biotechnology with light. Our first-of-its-kind optogenetic platform delivers unprecedented control, precisely guiding cellular behavior when and where it matters most. Unlike existing tools used to control biology, our technology enables dynamic, tunable control over virtually any cellular function in any cell type. We're enabling partners to unlock robust efficiency, quality, and reproducibility advantages across the most complex pharmaceuticals and therapeutic proteins. Prolific is supported by leading investors, including Bill Gates’s Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Mayfield and SOSV.

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