Applied Research Associate

You'll explore how biology could become a new substrate for computing, storage, and security.

In this role, you'll run hands-on experiments, translate results into clear implications, and help leaders make informed technology roadmap decisions.

As an Associate Molecular Biologist in a corporate strategic foresight team, you will design and execute experiments that evaluate frontier biotechnology concepts with potential computing and security applications.

You'll pair strong lab execution with clear, decision-ready communication for senior stakeholders.

You'll help shape internal perspectives on emerging areas such as DNA-based storage, molecular computation, and molecular cryptography.

Job Responsibilities


* Design and run experiments to assess feasibility, constraints, and performance of molecular computing and DNA-based storage concepts


* Define hypotheses, success metrics, and test plans aligned to long-horizon technology questions and decision needs


* Translate experimental outcomes and biological concepts into concise, executive-ready readouts and recommendations


* Conduct horizon scanning across academic and industry research to identify weak signals, opportunity areas, and emerging risks


* Contribute to scenario development, opportunity briefs, and risk/ethics considerations related to biological and computational convergence


* Operate day-to-day lab activities, including inventory, consumables planning, and equipment readiness


* Create, maintain, and improve standard operating procedures and version-controlled protocols


* Maintain rigorous documentation, including experiment logs, reproducibility notes, and appropriate chain-of-custody records when required


* Support safety, compliance, and risk assessment processes in line with applicable requirements


* Coordinate with external partners and vendors to extend wet-lab execution capacity and track deliverables against timelines


* Maintain awareness of relevant ecosystems (labs, startups, and consortia) and support relationship-building with external experts

Required qualifications, capabilities, and skills:


* Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or a closely related field


* Hands-on wet-lab experience with strong foundational knowledge of DNA/RNA systems and core molecular biology methods


* Demonstrated ability to frame testable hypotheses, define measurable success criteria, and interpret experimental results


* Ability to communicate complex scientific topics clearly to non-specialist, cross-functional stakeholders


* Strong documentation discipline, including accurate lab notebooks, protocol control, and reproducibility practices


* Working knowledge of lab safety practices and comfort operating within structured safety and quality expectations


* Ability to manage multiple experiments and priorities with attention to detail and follow-through

Preferred qualificati...