Research Associate, Molecular Biology

An affiliate of Colossal is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to join our interdisciplinary team at the intersection of molecular and developmental biology. This role offers the opportunity to work closely with scientists developing cutting-edge approaches to drive novel applications in the modification of phenotypes in avians. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical skills in molecular biology, excellent problem-solving abilities, and a collaborative mindset to help drive innovation in species de-extinction and conservation.

This position is based in Dallas, TX. Relocation assistance is available.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Collaborate with developmental biologists to analyze gene expression and function across different developmental stages.
• Perform molecular cloning, construct design, and plasmid preparation to support the development team.
• Screen constructs in developing avian embryos to quantify expression patterns.
• Produce transfection reagents to aid experimental workflows.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, providing recommendations to guide project direction.
• Participate in meetings, generate reports, and present findings to ensure alignment with project milestones.
• Maintain accurate, detailed laboratory records and demonstrate strong organizational skills.

Required Skills And Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in molecular cloning, plasmid construction, and plasmid preparation (mini-, midi-, and maxi-prep).
• Skilled in PCR primer design and PCR optimization/troubleshooting.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with demonstrated problem-solving abilities.
• Bachelor’s degree (B.S./B.A.) in molecular biology, or a related life science field with 1 or more years of hands-on research experience in industry or academic research labs.

Preferred Skills And Abilities

• Experience handling vertebrate embryos.
• Experience with transfection reagents (i.e. lipofectamine or electroporation)
• Experience with synthesis and packaging of mRNA
• Familiarity with high-throughput automation platforms for molecular biology workflows.

What Colossal Offers Full-Time Employees:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Excellent paid time off and company holidays so you can rest and recharge
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
• Company matched 401k retirement plan
• Paid parental leave at 100% salary for up to 12 weeks
• Education reimbursement
• An opportunity to help us return the Earth to a healthier state

The team at Colossal is committed, colorful, passionate, intelligent, collaborative, creative, experienced, scientific and world-class. That sounds like a lot to fit into one building. That’s why we are spread out in several locations that include laboratories, test facilities, academic institutions, libraries and offices.

Through it all, however, we maintain a culture of positivity, hope, happiness and belief that we’re doing something big. Something Colossal.

Colossal is proud to be an equal employment opportunity workplace. We welcome people from all backgrounds as well as celebrate and support diversity. We are committed to providing an inclusive environment of mutual respect that is free from discrimination and harassment so everyone can thrive.

EEO is the Law

Search Firm Representatives: Colossal does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms. No fees will be paid for a hired candidate where no pre-existing agreement is in place. We handle most recruitment in-house.

Colossal is proud to be named a Best Place to Work by BuiltIn for 4 years in a row across multiple categories in 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026:

• #1 on the 50 Best Startups to Work For in Dallas in 2023!
• 100 Best Midsize Places to Work in Dallas in 2024 & 2025
• 100 Best Places to Work in Dallas, TX (All Size Employers) in 2024, 2025, and 2026.

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