Research Associate, Biotech Research, Research Scientist

At HAYA Therapeutics, we are revolutionizing RNA-guided genome-targeting therapies to treat fibrosis, heart failure, and other serious diseases associated with aging. Our innovative platform leverages long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs)—key regulators within the “dark matter” of the genome—to develop first-in-class, highly specific therapies that modulate gene expression and restore cellular function.

1. Purpose of the role:

Develop and execute cutting-edge cell and molecular biology assays in immunology models to identify novel long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) targets and advance pioneering therapeutic applications.

1. Accountabilities

• Maintain and differentiate primary immune cells and cell lines (including T-cells, NK cells, Macrophages, and B cells) to establish robust in vitro immunology models.
• Execute multi-color flow cytometry (FACS) runs to monitor immune cell identity markers and perform phenotypic characterization.
• Conduct immunoassays (ELISA/MSD) for cytokine profiling to evaluate cellular immune responses and target engagement.
• Execute ASO/siRNA compound screenings in primary immune cells to measure on-target gene knockdown efficiency via qPCR and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS).
• Perform high-quality library preparation for NGS platforms (including bulk RNA-seq, single-cell/nucleus snRNA-seq/snATAC-seq, and ChIP-seq/HiC) to map genome-wide chromatin and transcriptomic changes.
• Perform nucleic acid (RNA/DNA) and protein extractions to supply downstream molecular and biochemical analysis work streams.
• Generate, analyze, and present experimental data packages to R&D teams and senior management to drive hit-to-lead program decisions.
• Maintain meticulous, real-time electronic lab notebook (ELN) records to ensure complete traceability, data integrity, and intellectual property protection.

2. Required Knowledge and Experience

Essential Qualifications & Technical Capabilities (Must-Haves)

• Scientific Foundation:
  Educational background (B.S. or M.S.) in Immunology, Molecular Biology, or a closely related biological science discipline.
• In Vitro Immune Cell Expertise:
  Practical, hands‑on proficiency in culturing and manipulating primary immune cell populations, with specific expertise in human or mouse primary T‑cell differentiation models.
• Molecular Biology Depth:
  Demonstrated capability in RNA/DNA isolation and the execution and data analysis of quantitative real‑time PCR (qRT‑PCR).
• Flow Cytometry Proficiency:
  Practical experience performing multi‑color flow cytometry (FACS) for immunophenotyping and cell‑state analysis.
• Immunoassay Capability:
  Proven technical ability to execute and analyze standard biochemical assays (ELISA or MSD) for protein quantification.
• Operational Agility:
  Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively, adapt quickly, and deliver results within a fast‑paced biotech environment.

Desirable Experience & Specialized Expertise (Nice‑to‑Haves)

• RNA Therapeutics & lncRNAs:
  Prior technical exposure to RNA-based modalities (ASOs or siRNAs) or long non‑coding RNA biology.
• Advanced Genomics & NGS:
  Technical experience in library construction across single‑cell transcriptomics or epigenetic profiling technologies.
• Transfection Protocol Development:
  Exposure to non‑viral delivery methods (transfection or electroporation) within primary immune cell populations.

Conditions of Employment

• Legal authorization to work in the United States (U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or valid work authorization).
• Requirement for full‑time, on‑site presence at the San Diego laboratory facility.

Leadership Profile

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Scientific Rigor & Execution:
  Focuses on generating high-quality, reproducible data while maintaining meticulous laboratory documentation standards.
• Local Problem‑Solving & Autonomy:
  Proactively addresses technical assay challenges and optimizes experimental workflows independently.
• Collaborative Communication:
  Communicates experimental outcomes clearly across matrixed R&D teams and contributes positively to team goals

HAYA Therapeutics is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where all individuals feel valued and…