Research Associate II - Ingredient and Product Innovation

About Debut

Debut is a pioneering innovation lab driving the future of major enterprises through a scalable, integrated, and climate-positive biotechnology creation model focused on human wellbeing. Their hybrid biotech methods open new markets by providing access to sustainable, natural ingredients with unique health benefits. The company is dedicated to advancing from ingredient discovery through product scaling for consumer markets, fostering a collaborative and rapid innovation environment.

Position Summary

The Research Associate II will play a key role in skincare ingredient discovery by developing and conducting in vitro assays. Responsibilities include designing and executing cell-based assays, maintaining mammalian cell cultures, and producing reliable data to support research programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and expand mammalian cell lines routinely.
• Conduct, optimize, and troubleshoot various in vitro assays such as absorbance, luminescence, fluorescence, ELISA, flow cytometry, qPCR, and colorimetric methods.
• Isolate, purify, and analyze nucleic acids for gene expression studies.
• Manage high-throughput sample processing workflows effectively.
• Handle samples, reagents, and equipment aseptically to maintain sterility.
• Participate in the design, development, and validation of new assays.
• Perform comprehensive literature reviews and incorporate findings into experimental plans.
• Collect, analyze, interpret, and accurately document experimental data in electronic lab notebooks and databases.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree with 2 years' experience or Associate's degree with 4 years' experience in cell biology, molecular biology, or related fields.
• Proven skills in mammalian cell culture.
• Experience implementing in vitro assays using standard cell biology techniques.
• Industry experience with mammalian cell culture is advantageous.
• Familiarity with coding and automated documentation is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Neck movement involving frequent upward and downward flexion.
• Prolonged sitting and repetitive hand use for computer operation.
• Dexterity necessary for lab tools and procedures such as pipetting.
• Occasional walking, standing, stair climbing, bending, twisting, squatting, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Willingness to work with biohazardous materials up to BSL2 level.
• Exposure to lab conditions including temperature extremes, noise, fumes, limited dust, and oily coolants.
• Compliance with company PPE policies including safety glasses, appropriate attire, safety shoes, hard hat, and hearing protection.

Employment Conditions

Applicants will undergo a background check as part of the hiring process. Equal employment opportunity is provided without bias towards race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability.

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $70,000 to $85,000 annually.