Research Assistant / Laboratory Technician

Cambridge, MA · In-Person · Contractor-to-Full-Time

About Us

GT Biosciences is building Deliveromics, the world’s first AI-powered, high-throughput, and multiplexed in vivo data engine for decoding the design rules of drug delivery. Founded by MIT scientists and backed by top-tier investors, we are creating next-generation non-viral, cell-type-specific delivery vehicles for mRNA and siRNA. We are a tightly-knit, fast-moving, and science-driven team dedicated to making routine in vivo cell reprogramming a reality.

We value transparency, collaboration, reliability, and scientific rigor, and seek teammates who thrive in an open, cooperative environment and want to grow together with the team and the company.

Job Description

GT Biosciences is seeking a highly motivated and dependable Research Associate to join our Platform Development Team and support lipid nanoparticle formulation and RNA delivery. This is a hands-on laboratory role designed for someone eager to learn, take some ownership, and grow within a fast-moving, science-obsessed startup environment.

From day one, you will work directly alongside scientists with world-leading expertise in RNA delivery, LNP engineering, in vivo screening, and translational biotechnology. Our commitment is to teach you new methods and help you build a broad wet-lab skill set.

Your job is to learn quickly, practice, execute carefully, and keep going when experiments are difficult. We’re looking for someone eager to learn and improve in a fast-paced environment.

Interview Process

The interview process includes two virtual interviews and one onsite interview. Selected candidates may then be invited to participate in a paid working trial lasting up to 30 calendar days. Continued employment will depend on performance, reliability, and mutual fit.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and formulate lipid nanoparticles and related non-viral delivery systems for mRNA and siRNA using established and evolving protocols.
• Support formulation screens by varying lipid composition, component ratios, buffers, mixing conditions, and other process parameters.
• Perform formulation characterization and quality control measurements (e.g., particle size, PDI, encapsulation efficiency, RNA concentration, pH, and fluorescence-based assays).
• Prepare high-quality formulations and samples for in vitro and in vivo studies, including dose calculations, labeling, quality control, and sample tracking.
• Maintain basic cell culture responsibilities and support transfection, expression, and knockdown assays as required.
• Handle precision liquid-handling tasks with accuracy and care (e.g., multichannel pipetting, reagent pooling, serial dilutions).
• Keep meticulous laboratory records and documentation, troubleshoot experiments thoughtfully, and repeat work carefully when results do not meet expectations.

Qualifications

Required

• B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field.
• At least 1+ years of meaningful hands-on experience in a wet laboratory setting (academic or industry).
• Demonstrated reliability, attention to detail, and strong commitment to accurate, thorough record-keeping.
• Proficiency with basic laboratory techniques (e.g., buffer preparation, serial dilution, accurate pipetting, and nucleic acid handling).
• A fast learner who is excited to develop unfamiliar wet-lab skills and become progressively more independent.
• Persistence when experiments fail, with the ability to stay calm, investigate possible causes, and improve the next attempt.
• A proactive, team-first attitude with strong ownership, clear communication, and consistent follow-through.
• Ability to work onsite five days per week at our Cambridge, MA location.

Preferred

• Exposure to lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, nanoparticle formulation, drug delivery, or microfluidic mixing.
• Experience handling RNA, including mRNA, siRNA, or other oligonucleotides.
• Experience with DLS, plate readers, UV spectroscopy, HPLC/UPLC, LC-MS, pH, osmolality, or endotoxin testing.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture, sterile technique, transfection, or cell-based assays.
• Experience with fluorescence microscopy or plate reader operation.
• Exposure to nucleic acid-based assays (e.g., hybridization, ligation, or amplification workflows).
• Basic cell culture skills (e.g., mammalian cell passaging, sterile technique).
• Proficiency with basic molecular biology techniques (e.g., running gels, making buffers, using DNA/RNA extraction kits).

Nice to Have

• Basic coding or data analysis skills (e.g., Python, R, or Excel for data organization).
• Familiarity with automated liquid handling or high-throughput screening platforms.
• Experience preparing formulations or samples for animal studies.
• Mouse intravenous injection, perfusion, or tissue collection experience.
• Strong interest in RNA medicines, drug delivery, and central nervous system therapeutics.

Compensation: $22-$40 per hour (depending on experience)

What we offer:

• Flexible, generous health benefits upon conversion to full-time employment.
• Work with a small, world-leading team that values rigorous science and candid collaboration.
• Learn directly from experts.
• Rapid professional growth through hands-on training and meaningful scientific ownership.