Senior Research Associate​/Research Associate, Biological Platform

Senior Research Associate / Research Associate, Biological Platform About our company

We are a Toronto-based agricultural biotechnology startup developing a novel platform for precision bioinsecticides. Our products are designed to eliminate target insect pests while leaving beneficial insects, pollinators, and the broader environment unharmed.

We are looking for a technically strong, hands‑on research associate to join our early team and support across our core platform workflows. You will work closely with our protein biochemistry and viral vector scientists to execute experiments, maintain our biological systems, and keep the lab running at a high standard. This is a bench‑first role and the right candidate takes pride in clean, reproducible work and brings rigor to everything they touch.

As an early hire, you will also play a direct role in shaping our lab operations, from establishing SOPs to managing reagents and equipment. Your contributions will have an immediate impact on what we can do scientifically.

• $75,000 to $85,000 CAD + equity + benefits.

• Own day-to-day lab operations: reagent and consumable inventory, equipment maintenance and calibration, vendor coordination, and general lab organization.
• Contribute to SOP development and maintain accurate experimental records.
• Express and purify recombinant proteins using standard chromatographic methods (affinity, SEC, and similar), supporting our insect receptor and viral vector production workflows.
• Maintain mammalian and/or insect cell culture (e.g., Sf9, Hi5) with consistent, high-quality technique.
• Execute biophysical binding assays (e.g., BLI, SPR, or similar) and support data collection and organization.
• Run cell-based and biochemical assays in support of screening and characterization campaigns.
• Perform standard molecular biology techniques including molecular cloning, gel electrophoresis, and PCR.

• MSc in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field with substantial hands‑on bench experience (4+ years).
• Direct experience with recombinant protein expression and purification.
• Proficiency in mammalian or insect cell culture.
• Hands‑on experience with at least one biophysical or biochemical binding assay format.
• Solid foundation in molecular biology techniques.
• Strong organizational habits and a proactive approach to lab operations.
• Comfort working in an early‑stage environment where workflows are still being built.

• Experience with flow cytometry or FACS.
• Familiarity with particle characterization methods (DLS, TEM, or similar).
• Prior experience in agricultural biotechnology, insect biology, or a CRO setting.
• Experience establishing or transferring protocols between teams or sites.

We welcome applications from candidates whose backgrounds don't fit neatly into the above. If you are technically strong and excited about what we're building, we encourage you to apply.