Temporary Research Associate

About Switch Bioworks

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. Learn more at

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.

• Currently pursuing a B.S. or M.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