About Us
e184 is a biotechnology research company advancing in vitro gametogenesis to transform reproductive medicine. We're developing integrated platforms that combine cellular reprogramming, machine learning-guided optimization, multi-omics analysis, and automated experimental workflows to enable gamete development for individuals facing reproductive challenges. We're assembling interdisciplinary teams across cell and molecular engineering, synthetic biology, epigenetic editing, bioinformatics and computational biology to tackle one of biology's most impactful problems - returning the fundamental right to procreate.
Role Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled, hands-on Associate Scientist to execute critical experimental workflows supporting our high-throughput screening and cell engineering programs. Reporting to the Team Lead and Chief Scientific Officer, you will be instrumental in establishing robust cellular assay platforms, generating engineered cell lines, and conducting screening campaigns that drive our stem cell differentiation research forward. This role offers the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies in a small, collaborative team environment where your technical excellence directly enables key discoveries, with significant ownership over day-to-day experimental operations and the chance to build processes from the ground up in a well-funded startup.
Primary Responsibilities
- Maintain and characterize pluripotent stem cell lines and primary cells, including routine culture, differentiation, quality control testing, cryopreservation, and cell banking according to established protocols
- Design and implement genome engineering strategies using CRISPR/Cas systems to generate reporter lines and other genetic modifications supporting screening and validation experiments
- Generate and validate engineered cell lines, including screening clones for correct genomic integration, characterizing expression patterns, and establishing stable reporter systems for phenotypic assays
- Execute genetic screening experiments in both pooled and arrayed formats, managing experimental workflows from library transduction through sample collection and quality control
- Optimize culture conditions and cellular assay parameters to ensure robust experimental performance, troubleshoot technical challenges, and provide rotational weekend maintenance when required
- Perform molecular biology workflows including plasmid preparation and library construction to support screening and validation campaigns
- Prepare samples for genomic analyses including single-cell RNA sequencing and other next-generation sequencing applications, ensuring sample quality and proper experimental controls
- Conduct flow cytometry and immunofluorescence analyses to characterize cellular phenotypes, validate reporter systems, and support data collection for screening campaigns
Required Qualifications
- BS in Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or related field with 4+ years of relevant experience, OR
- MS in related field with 3+ years of relevant experience
- Hands-on mammalian cell culture experience with sterile technique
- Demonstrated proficiency with molecular biology techniques (PCR, gel electrophoresis, plasmid preparation)
- Experience maintaining cell lines (passaging, cryopreservation, quality control)
- Basic flow cytometry experience (sample preparation and data collection)
- Ability to follow protocols accurately and troubleshoot basic issues
- Proficient with laboratory equipment and instrumentation
- Strong record-keeping and documentation practices
- Reliable and responsible for time-sensitive culture maintenance
- Willingness to learn new techniques and adapt protocols
- Flexibility for occasional weekend cell culture maintenance
Preferred Qualifications
- Direct experience with pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs, ESCs)
- Hands-on experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing
- Involvement in genetic screening projects (pooled or arrayed)
- Experience with reporter cell line generation and validation
- Clone screening and characterization experience
- Advanced flow cytometry (panel design, multi-color analysis, cell sorting)
- Transposon-based genome engineering (PiggyBac, Sleeping Beauty, etc.)
- Immunofluorescence microscopy and imaging
- Sample preparation for next-generation sequencing (RNA-seq, single-cell sequencing)
- Experience with FlowJo, Prism, or similar analysis software
- Familiarity with automated liquid handling or high-throughput platforms
Why join our team
- Skill development: build expertise across stem cell biology, genome engineering, high-throughput screening, and multi-omics technologies - gaining exposure to cutting-edge techniques in a fast-paced environment
- Direct impact: your work will directly enable key experiments and discoveries. See the immediate results of your contributions to critical company milestones
- Mentorship and collaboration: work closely with experienced scientists who invest in your professional development. Contribute to a supportive, team-oriented culture where everyone's voice matters
- Growth opportunities: this role provides a strong foundation for career advancement in biotech. You'll gain diverse hands-on experience with advanced technologies, develop experimental design skills, and have opportunities to contribute to publications and patents. Clear pathways exist to senior associate scientist and scientist positions as you develop expertise and take on increasing responsibility
- Unique opportunity at early-stage biotech startup: be part of building experimental platforms from the ground up in a well-funded early-stage company; work at the intersection of stem cell biology, functional genomics, and genome engineering; smaller team structure with more ownership and visibility than typical industry roles; direct interaction with senior scientists and leadership team
What We Offer
- On-site work in the US Pacific Northwest in state-of-the-art facility
- Competitive compensation, equity participation, and comprehensive benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision and 401(k) with employer match
Disclaimer
The above job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required. Responsibilities and duties may change or be adjusted to meet the needs of the company, and additional duties may be assigned as necessary. The job description is subject to change at any time at the discretion of e184.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
