Research Associate Co-Op, Preclinical Research - Muscle, Bone and Stem Cell Biology

At Keros, our mission is to deliver significant clinical benefit to a wide range of patients with disorders that are linked to dysfunctional signaling of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-ß) family of proteins. With a focus on developing differentiated product candidates that are designed to alter TGF-β signaling, we aim to target the pathways critical for the growth, repair and maintenance of blood cells and a number of tissues, including bone, skeletal muscle, adipose and heart tissue.

We believe our product candidates have the potential to unlock the full therapeutic benefits of modulating the TGF-β superfamily and provide disease-modifying benefit to patients.

The successful candidate will contribute to scientific studies focusing on muscle biology, bone and stem cell biology helping advance our innovative pipeline. This Co-Op Research Associate position will actively contribute to impactful preclinical research projects focused on muscle, bone, and stem cell biology. This position offers immersive, hands‑on experience with state-of-the-art in vitro, ex vivo techniques and in vivo procedures in a collaborative, fast-paced laboratory setting.

This co‑op role provides comprehensive scientific mentorship and training, engagement with multidisciplinary project teams, and broad exposure to pioneering research at the intersection of discovery and patient care.

• Perform in vitro and ex vivo laboratory research, including cell culture, RNA isolation, and gene expression analysis by qRT-PCR
• Execute in vitro assays (e.g., Western blot, ELISA) to assess protein expression and therapeutic activity
• Conduct antibody staining and flow cytometric analysis of bone marrow stem cells and other cell types
• Maintain clear, accurate experimental records and summarize results in study reports
• Participate in cross-functional team meetings, providing updates and presenting data
• Troubleshoot experiments and propose solutions based on literature and team discussions
• Uphold laboratory safety protocols and Keros Therapeutics’ standards for scientific rigor and documentation

• Proficiency in cell culture and sterile technique
• Familiarity with molecular biology methods (e.g., RNA extraction, qRT-PCR, Western blot, ELISA)
• Ability to perform antibody staining and flow cytometry, or strong willingness to learn
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple experiments and prioritize tasks efficiently
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; capable of summarizing and presenting scientific data
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, with a high degree of honesty, integrity, and scientific curiosity
• Team player, open to feedback, and willing to collaborate across various departments

• Prior experience in a laboratory setting
• Interest in stem cell, bone, or muscle biology
• Experience with data analysis and presentation software (MS Office, Graph Pad Prism, etc.)
• Previous exposure to drug discovery or biopharmaceutical research

• Current undergraduate or graduate student majoring in animal science, biology, biochemistry, or a related scientific field

This pay range represents the base hourly rate or base annual full‑time salary for all positions in the job grade within which this position falls. The actual base salary offer will depend on a variety of factors including experience, education, and other relevant factors. Potential base pay range: $28—$32 USD.

Keros is an inclusive company. We believe that diversity drives innovation. We continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the diverse voices of our employees. As such, Keros takes a holistic approach in mentoring, coaching, and developing all of our Keros team members.

Keros Therapeutics is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Keros Therapeutics does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than the candidate directly. Any unsolicited submission by an agency to Keros is prohibited. Any resume submitted by an agency without a signed contract or expressed consent by a member of the Keros Therapeutics Human Resources Department, will be considered property of Keros Therapeutics, and no fee shall be owed with respect thereto.