What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Associate, Molecular Biology position at Vedanta Biosciences, Inc.?
Title: Research Associate, Molecular Biology
Location: Cambridge, MA
Reports to: Associate Director, Analytical Development
About Vedanta Biosciences:
Vedanta Biosciences is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company developing medicines for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. The company's lead assets include potential first-in-class oral therapies, VE303, in a Phase 3 trial for recurrent C. difficile infection, and VE202, in a Phase 2 trial for ulcerative colitis. Vedanta's pipeline has been built using the company's industry-leading product engine for the development of therapies based on defined consortia of bacteria grown from pure clonal cell banks. The product engine, supported by foundational IP, includes one of the largest libraries of bacteria isolated from the human microbiome, vast clinical datasets, proprietary capabilities in consortium design, and end-to-end CGMP manufacturing capabilities at commercial launch scale.
The Role:
We are seeking a Research Associate to join our Analytical Development (AD) team. The selected candidate will perform molecular and microbiological assays on microbial samples to support research and manufacturing activities. This role will also contribute to assay qualification and quality investigations. It provides an exceptional opportunity to work at the intersection of molecular biology, microbiology, and cGMP-compliant processes within a dynamic and collaborative environment.
Here's What You'll Do:
Vedanta is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vedanta will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.
Vedanta Biosciences requires all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and newly hired employees must be fully vaccinated prior to their employment start date. Vedanta Biosciences will consider accommodations for individuals who are unable to be vaccinated against COVID-19 due to a qualifying medical condition or disability or a sincerely held religious objection.
Location: Cambridge, MA
Reports to: Associate Director, Analytical Development
About Vedanta Biosciences:
Vedanta Biosciences is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company developing medicines for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. The company's lead assets include potential first-in-class oral therapies, VE303, in a Phase 3 trial for recurrent C. difficile infection, and VE202, in a Phase 2 trial for ulcerative colitis. Vedanta's pipeline has been built using the company's industry-leading product engine for the development of therapies based on defined consortia of bacteria grown from pure clonal cell banks. The product engine, supported by foundational IP, includes one of the largest libraries of bacteria isolated from the human microbiome, vast clinical datasets, proprietary capabilities in consortium design, and end-to-end CGMP manufacturing capabilities at commercial launch scale.
The Role:
We are seeking a Research Associate to join our Analytical Development (AD) team. The selected candidate will perform molecular and microbiological assays on microbial samples to support research and manufacturing activities. This role will also contribute to assay qualification and quality investigations. It provides an exceptional opportunity to work at the intersection of molecular biology, microbiology, and cGMP-compliant processes within a dynamic and collaborative environment.
Here's What You'll Do:
- Collect, process, and manage microbial samples from fermentation processes.
- Execute DNA extraction, qPCR assays, and next-generation sequencing.
- Perform bacterial isolation from stool samples and support assay development.
- Prepare GMP-grade media to support routine testing.
- Support quality investigations and assay qualification activities.
- Execute Standard Operating Procedures to ensure accurate and consistent practices.
- Manage shipping and receiving of biological samples and purchasing orders.
- Record and analyze experimental data in accordance with regulatory requirements.
- Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, lab operations, and clinical teams.
- Bachelor's degree in biological sciences, with 1–2 years of practical laboratory experience in molecular biology.
- Proficiency in DNA extraction and qPCR techniques.
- Experience with general microbiology lab practices, including aseptic techniques and media preparation, is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with bacterial isolation and culturing.
- Experience with liquid handling automation and sequencing library preparation is a plus.
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and organizational skills.
- Curiosity and a passion for learning.
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to work both independently and collaboratively.
Vedanta is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vedanta will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.
Vedanta Biosciences requires all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and newly hired employees must be fully vaccinated prior to their employment start date. Vedanta Biosciences will consider accommodations for individuals who are unable to be vaccinated against COVID-19 due to a qualifying medical condition or disability or a sincerely held religious objection.
