Overview
Research Associate Jobs in San Diego, CA at Stealth-stage Biotech
Research Associate – Vivarium Operations
Company
Institutionally backed, stealth-stage biotech company focused on neuroscience and the development of novel therapeutics.
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Technician or Research Associateto support our in vivo research programs by managing daily vivarium operations and assisting with animal studies. This individual will play a critical role in maintaining mouse colonies, ensuring high-quality animal care and study execution, and supporting preclinical research activities. The ideal candidate is organized, dependable, and thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced research environment.
Primary Responsibilities
Vivarium & Colony Management
- Manage and maintain mouse colonies.
- Perform breeding, colony management, and pedigree tracking.
- Wean pups, identify animals, and maintain accurate colony records.
- Coordinate colony expansion and reduction based on research needs.
- Ensure compliance with institutional animal care protocols and regulatory requirements.
Genotyping
- Collect tissue samples for genotyping
- Maintain accurate genotyping records and ensure timely identification of animals for experimental use.
In Vivo Procedures
- Monitor animal health and document observations throughout studies.
- Assist with necropsy and tissue collection.
- Perform tissue dissections while maintaining sample integrity.
- Properly label, process, and store biological specimens according to study protocols.
Documentation & Compliance
- Maintain detailed and accurate electronic records.
- Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), IACUC protocols, and institutional guidelines.
- Ensure compliance with animal welfare and biosafety requirements.
Qualifications
Required
- 2-3 years of hands-on experience working with laboratory rodents.
- Experience with mouse breeding, colony maintenance, and weaning.
- Experience collecting samples for genotyping.
- Experience with rodent handling and restraint.
- Bachelor’s degree
Preferred
- Experience with subcutaneous and intraperitoneal injections, and other common routes of administration.
- Experience performing tail vein blood collection and terminal cardiac puncture.
- Experience with tissue collection and dissection.
- Experience performing rodent brain dissections.
- Experience working with transgenic mouse models.
- Familiarity with electronic colony management systems (e.g., SoftMouse, Tick@Lab, Mosaic Vivarium, or similar).
- Experience supporting neuroscience or genetic disease research.
Key Competencies
- Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Strong record-keeping and documentation practices.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic research environment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Commitment to high standards of animal welfare and scientific rigor.
- Positive attitude and willingness to support team goals.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work in an animal facility environment.
- Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
- Ability to stand, bend, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.
- Ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Pay: $70,000.00 – $90,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Free parking
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Stock options
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Title: Research Associate
Company: Stealth-stage Biotech
Location: San Diego, CA
Category:
