Research Associate - Plasma Processing & Lab Management

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About Prima Mente

Prima Mente\’s goal is to deeply understand the brain, protect the brain from neurological disease, and enhance brain health. We generate our own data, build brain foundation models, and translate discoveries to real clinical and research impact.

We cannot support visa applications for this role.

The Role

We are building a world‑class wet‑lab team to drive innovation in molecular data generation. Spanning automation, next‑generation sequencing (NGS), and multi‑omics approaches, our projects create high‑quality, high‑throughput datasets that fuel our scientific and clinical objectives.

Role Focus & Expected Growth – Sample Ops, NGS & Automation

• In 1 month: set up the process for processing and storing incoming and outgoing samples for clinical studies.
• In 3 months: own maintenance of the lab inventory and automation setup, and be onboarded to standard wet‑lab techniques.
• In 6 months: contribute to analysis of incoming samples and directly own many key parts of the protocol.

Key Responsibilities

• Process incoming and outgoing samples for clinical studies – support logistics, print labels, track via LIMS, and manage storage.
• Operate automated platforms for DNA/RNA extraction and NGS library preparation (e.g., QIAsymphony, Opentrons).
• Perform quality‑control assessments of DNA/RNA extracts and NGS libraries using qPCR, Agilent TapeStation, and Qubit.
• Contribute to NGS assay development – support novel bioprocess testing workflows, validate, and troubleshoot molecular protocols.
• Conduct protein analysis experiments (ELISA, Western blot, other immunoassays) to support multi‑omic workflows.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and cross‑functional teams to understand technical challenges and propose innovative analytical solutions.
• Document and maintain accurate laboratory records in compliance with GLP/GCLP, and prepare high‑quality technical reports and data summaries.
• Maintain lab organisation and readiness – calibrate instruments, inventory consumables, and adhere to safety protocols.

Who You Are

You enjoy being super hands‑on in the lab, have excellent organisational and communication skills, and maintain a collaborative and proactive mindset. You can work independently and in a close‑knit team in a fast‑paced, evolving research environment.

• Known in the lab as someone who gets things done.
• Bring energy to the room.
• Build trust with people around you quickly.
• Communicate proactively and specifically.
• High attention to detail.
• Grow on your own and absorb knowledge from others quickly.
• Use AI extensively in each part of your work.
• Available in the lab every day of the week.

Ideal Lab Experience

• B.S./M.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related field with at least 1 year of hands‑on experience in academia or industry.
• Hands‑on experience with automation platforms and molecular techniques (e.g., nucleic‑acid extraction, PCR, NGS library prep).
• Familiarity with Illumina sequencing workflows and associated QC tools preferred.
• Experience with protein quantification and characterisation techniques is a plus.

Interview Process

Interview process is run end‑to‑end within 2 weeks. If we like your application, in‑person interviews will take place from 17–23 Dec., involving co‑founders Ravi and Hannah, and the entire wet‑lab team.

Compensation & Benefits

£30,000–45,000, experience‑dependent, salary growth available on execution.

Equity.

BUPA medical insurance.

Pension at 3 %.

Lunch paid for when you’re in the office.

Culture Insight

Prima Mente operates with a flat organisational structure, empowering those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. We value curiosity, rigorous science, and personal growth, thriving on challenges and hands‑on work.

Our Values

• Exceptional performance at exceptional pace – uncompromising quality and rigor.
• Inquisitive discovery – curiosity and creativity; each question a path to breakthrough.
• Radical candour – unwavering honesty and transparency.
• Purposeful individuality – celebrate identity, uniqueness, and bespoke development.
• Patient impact at scale – commitment to improving global health through data and innovation.

Seniority Level

Entry level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Research, Analyst, and Information Technology