Research Associate - Aptamer

About Level Zero

Level Zero is pioneering next-generation biosensor technology for precise, real-time monitoring of critical endocrine biomarkers. Recognised as one of the top 20 startups across all categories worldwide at Tech Crunch Disrupt 2024 - and backed by top‑tier organisations like SOSV and Entrepreneur First - we’re pushing the boundaries of biochemistry and nanotechnology to revolutionize personalised health.

Founded by two seasoned engineers, we bring extensive experience in R&D, technical innovation, and commercial strategy to transform the way people monitor their health. Our mission is bold: to revolutionise health management by delivering clinical‑grade data directly to individuals, wherever they are.

We’re seeking driven innovators to join us in pushing the boundaries of biosensing and health tech, making personalised health monitoring a reality for everyone. To achieve this ambitious vision, we’re assembling the best team in the world - dedicated to turning cutting‑edge science into life‑changing, real‑world solutions.

We’re looking for a Research Associate to help drive aptamer discovery and early‑stage biosensor R&D at Level Zero. Working closely with R&D and sensor design leadership, you’ll run SELEX campaigns for small‑molecule targets, execute core wet‑lab workflows (affinity chromatography, qPCR, gels, nucleic acid purification, NGS), and combine experimental rigor with oligo design and bioinformatic analysis to identify and validate top aptamer candidates.

• Conduct SELEX experiments for small molecule targets to identify new aptamers, involving wet lab bio/chem processes including affinity chromatography, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid purification, and next‑gen sequencing
• Conduct nucleic acid oligo design and bioinformatic analyses to identify aptamer candidates
• Validate aptamer binding using methods such as Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC), Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), plate‑based fluorescence assay, melt curve analysis and other methods
• Contribute to early‑stage R&D, and collaborate with sensor design leadership to define and refine future directions

Ideal candidate must have:

• A Bachelors degree or higher with at least 2 years of industry experience (full‑time wet lab)
• Proficiency in molecular biology and chemistry lab workflows such as affinity chromatography, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid purification, and binding assays

• Knowledge or experience in the handling and study of hydrophobic compounds (e.g., hormones), the handling and study of bio‑fluids, and the development of simulated bio‑fluid model solutions, biosensing principles
• Bioinformatics experience, Bash, Python, R languages, next‑gen seq data processing, sequence motif analysis, nucleic acid 2D‑prediction, or nucleic acid design (e.g., primer design)
• Knowledge or experience next‑gen sequencing and Illumina systems, nucleic acid synthesis and purification
• Knowledge or experience with biophysical characterization, ITC, SPR, CD spectroscopy, biosensing, fluorescence characterization approaches, or macromolecular structural characterization using NMR, SAXS, docking or MD simulations
• Prior work in a start‑up or small company environment

We value culture as much as we value technical expertise, creating an environment that’s equal parts collaboration, curiosity, and fun.

We’re a fast‑paced, mission‑driven young team on a quest to make a lasting impact, fueled by uncompromising integrity, unwavering support for one another, and the thrill of exploring uncharted territories. Our passion for excellence drives everything we do, and we welcome individuals who share our commitment to shaping the future.

If our vision excites you, here are the qualities we look for:

• You live and breathe integrity, tackling challenges with honesty and transparency
• You’re a self‑starter who loves diving into the unknown, collaborating on complex problems, and taking full ownership of results
• You excel at open, clear communication and see every piece of feedback as a springboard for growth—especially in a science and data‑focused environment
• You’re motivated by…