Research Associate II, Pluvinage Lab

The role

We are seeking a Research Associate to join the Pluvinage Lab at the Arc Institute. Our goal is to improve the lives of patients with neurological diseases. We do this by exploring undiagnosed autoimmunity in rare mystery cases and common neurodegenerative conditions alike. Starting with clinical observations and primary patient tissue, we use functional genomics, protein display technologies, and computational tools to embark on deep mechanistic dives into the contribution of autoimmunity to cognitive function.

Your work will have the potential to uncover novel autoantibodies that drive cognitive decline in autoimmune encephalitis, that modulate cognitive decline in dementia, and that promote cognitive resilience in healthy brain aging.

What you will do

Build Discovery Reagents: Work with senior lab members to design DNA constructs and protein display libraries; perform molecular cloning, sequence verification, and quality control of constructs and libraries.

All jobs

Research Associate II, Pluvinage Lab

Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA +1

The role

What you will do

Build Discovery Reagents: Work with senior lab members to design DNA constructs and protein display libraries; perform molecular cloning, sequence verification, and quality control of constructs and libraries.

What you need

About you

You are detail-oriented and rigorous, taking pride in well-designed experiments, reliable reagents, and reproducible results.
You are curious and self-motivated, with a strong foundation in molecular biology and an eagerness to learn new protein display and antibody discovery technologies.
You enjoy working across an entire experimental workflow, from sequence design and cloning to screening and data analysis.
You are organized and able to manage multiple experiments while maintaining careful sample tracking and documentation.
You collaborate closely with others, communicate results and challenges openly, and troubleshoot thoughtfully.
You are passionate about translating discoveries into better diagnostics for patients with neurological disease.
This position is designed as a training role for individuals preparing to apply to a PhD program. The work associated with this role is expected to last approximately two years, giving you time to build a portfolio of research to support future applications.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, immunology, genetics, or a related field, or equivalent relevant laboratory experience.
2+ years of relevant experience in an academic or industry setting (including independent lab work during your undergraduate studies).
Hands-on research experience in molecular biology
Demonstrated ability to execute multistep experimental protocols accurately, use appropriate controls, and maintain clear and complete laboratory records.
Growth mindset to stretch your scientific skillset in a supportive environment, and the awareness to know when to ask for help.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills, including careful tracking of samples, reagents, and experimental conditions.
Excellent communication skills and the ability to work both independently on established workflows and collaboratively with senior scientists.
Commitment to rigorous, reproducible research and a strong interest in antibody discovery and its diagnostic applications.

The base salary for this position is $75,900. This amount does not include benefits or other forms of compensation.

Research Associate II, Pluvinage Lab

The role

What you will do

Research Associate II, Pluvinage Lab

The role

What you will do

What you need

About you

Requirements

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