Research Associate , Innovative Genomics Institute

Research Associate (9613C), Innovative Genomics Institute #89172

At the University of California, Berkeley , we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom, and belonging makes it a special place for students, faculty, and staff, who are among the most talented and accomplished anywhere, including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and Mac Arthur Fellows. Since our founding in 1868, we have been an engine for innovation - driving intellectual, economic, and social progress that benefits California, the U.S., and beyond.

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The Innovative Genomics Institute (IGI) is a partnership between the University of California, Berkeley and the University of California, San Francisco. The IGI envisions a world in which genome-engineering innovations benefit humanity and are accessible to all. The Institutes mission is to accelerate genome discovery and translation of resulting technologies in order to ethically and equitably improve human health and sustainable agriculture.

Combining fundamental research expertise and biomedical talent, the IGI focuses on unraveling the mechanisms underlying CRISPR-based genome editing and applying this technology to cure disease, combat climate change, ensure food sustainability, and provide additional benefits for current and future generations.

The IGI consists of four central programs:
Human Health, Sustainable Agriculture, Advancing Genome Engineering, and Public Impact. Unlike the first three, the Public Impact program does not involve laboratory research but instead focuses on accomplishing the goal of IGI founder, Jennifer Doudna, to ensure that genome engineering makes the world a better place.

To complement the laboratory work, the Public Impact Program places special emphasis on connecting the science of genome engineering to the world. The role of the Public Impact program is to engage in societal research, public and stakeholder engagement, outreach, and policy to align genome editing applications with societal needs and values, ensuring that benefits are ethical, accessible, and desirable.

The Research Associate collaborates with a research team conducting molecular analysis of genome editing outcomes using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) and other advanced assay-based techniques. This role involves the maintenance and expansion of sensitive mammalian cell lines, including iPSCs, and the execution of core molecular biology protocols to validate CRISPR-based therapeutic interventions. The Research Associate collaborates with a research team developing next-generation CRISPR-based therapeutics using various delivery techniques including, ribonucleoprotein (RNP) delivery approaches.

Projects in the lab focus on engineering and delivering genome editing systems to treat diseases such as Huntington’s disease, pediatric glioma, and sickle cell disease. Under supervision, the position assists with molecular biology techniques including cloning, protein and RNP preparation, cell culture, and genome editing assays, as well as evaluating delivery efficiency in relevant cell types. Supports laboratory operations, including preparing reagents, maintaining organized records, and assisting with experimental workflows.

The role will contribute to research activities under a supervisor’s guidance while supporting the lab’s mission to…