Research Associate - Systems Biology & Phage Therapy; Silas Lab

About the Role

The Gladstone-UCSF Infectious Disease Institute seeks a Research Associate (RA) to lead a project focused on massively parallel functional genomics and high-throughput screening of bacteriophage genes. The RA will work closely with Principal Investigator Sukrit Silas to develop an innovative screening platform across diverse bacterial species, contributing to the mapping of bacterial antiviral immune architecture and the development of phage therapies.

• Neutralizing ESKAPE pathogens
• Developing phage therapeutics for antibiotic-resistant UTIs
• Exploring antibacterial prophylaxis strategies for high-risk surgical procedures

• Collaborate closely with PI Sukrit Silas and contribute to high-impact research; potential to publish papers within a two-year period.
• Develop and optimize high-throughput phage-host screening protocols using molecular biology techniques, including high‑efficiency electroporation and transformation, restriction enzyme cloning, Gibson Assembly, Golden Gate Assembly, PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA/RNA purification, NGS sample preparation, and whole-genome transposon mutagenesis.
• Process large numbers of samples in parallel, prioritizing efficiency alongside thorough sample handling and record-keeping.
• Maintain rigorous sample tracking and organization across parallel workflows.
• Lead and document complex projects using Benchling.
• Assist with research planning, including primer and vector design, experimental execution, analysis, troubleshooting, and data interpretation.
• Maintain detailed experimental records and present findings at regular team meetings.
• Manage general laboratory operations, including reagent procurement, inventory organization, and compliance with safety regulations.
• Full‑time, in‑person position based in Mission Bay, San Francisco; availability for evening and weekend hours as required.

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in Cell and Molecular Biology or related field; at least one year of hands‑on research laboratory experience (preferred).
• Strong ability to work independently and demonstrate initiative and problem‑solving skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail and excellent organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Proactive approach to learning new techniques and optimizing protocols.
• Effective time‑management skills, ability to prioritize tasks, collaborate with team members, and meet multiple deadlines.
• Commitment to following established policies and procedures.

• Experience in bacterial cell culture maintenance and transformation.
• Experience in high-throughput or high‑volume sample workflows.
• Proficiency in PCR, DNA extraction and purification, gel electrophoresis, DNA construct design and cloning, DNA library construction and sequencing (Sanger and NGS), protein expression and analysis techniques (Western blotting).
• Previous experience with laboratory management and inventory organization.

• Experience with RNA and bacteriophage handling.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel).

• Salary range: $28.35/hr – $32.67/hr.
• Competitive medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans.
• Paid vacation, commuter benefits, and access to free shuttle transportation.

Gladstone is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other non-job related characteristic. We make all employment decisions so as to further this principle of equal employment.