Research Assistant

About This Role

This hands-on laboratory role is for a curious and engaged Research Assistant to join a team working at the interface of generative AI and biology. You will help execute and optimize assays to functionally test and characterize novel proteins designed using proprietary models, with an emphasis on mammalian cell culture, cell-based assays, and high-throughput screening (HTS).

Responsibilities

• Maintain mammalian cell cultures, including thawing, passaging, expansion, cryopreservation, and monitoring cell health
• Prepare cells for screening experiments using consistent aseptic technique
• Execute high-throughput screening workflows, running plate-based assays to evaluate protein activity using established protocols, appropriate controls, and careful sample tracking
• Support workflows in 96- and/or 384-well formats
• Support assay development and optimization, working with lead scientists to test assay conditions, assess reproducibility, and troubleshoot experimental issues
• Contribute observations and ideas that improve assay performance
• Use laboratory automation, operating liquid handlers, plate readers, and other screening equipment following training and established procedures
• Document and summarize results, maintaining accurate experimental records in Benchling or a similar electronic lab notebook, tracking samples, and sharing results with the team
• Support daily laboratory operations, preparing reagents, maintaining supplies, storing deliveries, and helping keep shared equipment and work spaces organized and ready for use

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or a related field with approximately 1-3 years of relevant laboratory experience, or a master's degree with 0-2 years of relevant experience
• Academic research and substantive internship experience are both welcome
• Hands-on mammalian cell culture skills, including experience maintaining mammalian cell lines, using aseptic technique, and assessing cell viability and culture quality
• Experience with HTS or high-throughput assay workflows, familiarity with multiwell plate assays, multichannel pipetting, plate layouts, controls, and consistent sample handling
• A foundation in experimental biology, with experience with cell-based assays and one or more complementary techniques, such as flow cytometry

Nice to have:

• Experience with transfection
• Experience with automated liquid handling

About the Company

Latent Labs is building frontier models that learn the fundamentals of biology, pursuing ambitious goals with curiosity and a commitment to scientific excellence. The team co-developed Deep Mind's Nobel-prize winning Alpha Fold, invented latent diffusion, and built pioneering lab data management systems as well as high throughput protein screening platforms. They foster a culture of trust across their London and San Francisco sites and are looking for innovators passionate about tackling complex challenges and maximizing positive global impact.