Temporary Research Associate

Research Associate

Based in San Carlos, CA, Switch Bioworks is redefining bioproduction through programmable microbes. Beginning with agriculture, we are developing nitrogen-fixing microbial consortia that live directly on crop roots. This replaces expensive, carbon-intensive synthetic fertilizers with a living alternative that reshapes the economics and sustainability of farming.

Our edge lies in our namesake "switches" - synthetic biology control systems that activate microbial production only when and where it's needed. By combining microbial ecology with advanced genetic control systems, Switch is building a biological platform with the potential to transform agriculture and a wide range of industrial bioproduction applications.

Our mission is simple: improve planetary health while reducing fertilizer costs at the farm gate.

Switch Bioworks is seeking a temporary Research Associate to join the Plant Microbiology Team (PMT) in support of the 2026 field trial season. This is a temporary, hourly (non-exempt, benefits-exempt) role running from approximately July through September 2026, with a schedule of about 35 hours per week.

The person hired will process corn rhizosphere samples in-house, covering rhizosphere extraction through DNA extraction and sequencing prep, and gather whole-root colonization data at key field trial time points. The person will work closely with the Plant Microbiology Team on an active sampling schedule. This is a hands-on execution role requiring independent, rigorous protocol work and sample tracking.

• Perform rhizosphere and DNA extraction root materials collected from corn fields following established SOPs.
• Support internal library prep and sequencing run management for processed rhizosphere samples.
• Assist with data integration, QC, and back-end assembly of colonization datasets across trial programs.
• Maintain rigorous sample tracking and processing records for full traceability from field collection through sequencing.
• Coordinate with the Plant Microbiology Team on sample intake and processing timelines, and maintain a clean, compliant lab workspace.

• Must be authorized to work full-time in the U.S. and able to work on-site daily in the California Bay Area.
• Familiarity with molecular biology lab techniques, particularly DNA extraction and handling of biological samples.
• Exceptional attention to detail with proven organizational and time management skills, including the ability to process high volumes of samples accurately and on schedule.
• Comfortable working independently through a defined protocol once trained, with minimal ongoing supervision.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills for effective cross-functional collaboration with the Plant Microbiology Team.
• A mission-driven team player eager to contribute in a fast-paced startup environment during a high-volume sampling season.

• B.S. in Plant Science, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Soil Biology, or a related discipline.
• Prior hands-on experience with DNA extraction and/or rhizosphere or soil sample processing is a plus.
• Ability to handle large sample sets and maintain organized, accurate data records.
• Work collaboratively with the team and support to accomplish the goals.

• Employment type:
  
  Temporary, non-exempt (hourly)
• Benefits Eligibility:
  Non-eligible
• Estimated Duration:
  Approximately 8–10 weeks (July–September 2026)
• Expected
  
  Schedule:
  
  On-site approximately 35 hours/week
• Pay rate: $30/hour