Research Associate - In Vitro Molecular Neurotechnology

Merge Labs is a frontier research lab with the mission of bridging biological and artificial intelligence to maximize human ability, agency and experience. We’re pursuing this goal by developing fundamentally new approaches to brain-computer interfaces that interact with the brain at high bandwidth, integrate with advanced AI, and are ultimately safe and accessible for anyone to use. About the team: Our Bio team designs, builds, and characterizes the biotechnologies that form the foundation of next-generation brain-computer interfaces. We combine molecular engineering, synthetic biology, neuroscience, and advanced physical methods such as ultrasound to establish less invasive, high-bandwidth connections with neurons. We develop and validate our core molecular technologies in close collaboration with engineers, data scientists, and in vivo researchers. About the role: We are seeking a Research Associate to help develop and characterize neuronal models for ultrasound-based molecular actuation . You will establish and maintain neuronal culture systems, introduce engineered constructs, and evaluate their expression, localization, and function. Working closely with molecular biology, neuroscience, and in vivo teams, you will generate reproducible data that guide actuator development and optimization. This is a hands-on role for someone with strong neuronal culture skills who enjoys troubleshooting experiments and developing new methods. In this role, you will: - Establish, maintain, and characterize neuronal cell culture systems, including primary, stem cell-derived, or brain slice models. - Perform transfections and viral transductions to introduce engineered constructs into cells. - Execute microscopy and cell-based assays to assess construct expression, localization, and function. - Collaborate with molecular biology, neuroscience, and in vivo teams to design experiments, interpret results, and inform iterative tool optimization. - Troubleshoot experiments and contribute to protocol development, optimization, and standardization. - Maintain accurate experimental records, culture histories, and sample metadata, and communicate results clearly across teams. You might thrive in this role if you have: - A BS or MS in Bioengineering, Neuroscience, Cell Biology, or a related discipline, with hands-on laboratory experience. - Experience with one or more neuronal systems, including primary neurons, iPSC-derived neurons, acute or organotypic brain slice cultures. - Experience with transfection, viral transduction, microscopy, or cell-based assays. - A systematic approach to troubleshooting and strong attention to experimental quality, reproducibility, and documentation. - A collaborative, organized approach to laboratory work and enthusiasm for tackling foundational neurotechnology problems in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary team. Nice to have: - Experience with protein or genetic circuit engineering. If you're excited about this role but don't meet every qualification, please apply. As we build, we're hiring for complementary strengths to form a high-impact team. If you're excited about this role but don't meet every qualification, please apply. As we build, we're hiring for complementary strengths to form a high-impact team. For more information about hiring at Merge, please visit our Hiring FAQ https://app.notion.com/p/Hiring-FAQ-34807970692180e88dd6d701b83cbf7b?source=copy_link Merge Labs does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, family status, ancestry, citizenship, U.S. military (state and federal) and veteran status, or any other legally protected status. It is our intention that all applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions are based on job related factors. We are an equal opportunity employer. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities, and requests can be made by emailing accommodations@merge.io.