Research Associate

An affiliate of Colossal is seeking an experienced Research Associate/Senior Research Associate to support precision genome engineering in non-model mammalian organisms. You will produce and validate CRISPR/Cas9, prime editing, base editing, and multiplex editing reagents that enable Cell Engineering colleagues to generate edited cell lines. We seek a technically proficient, hands-on contributor who can execute established workflows independently and contribute from the outset.

This position is based on-site in Dallas, TX. Relocation assistance is available.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Generate and quality-control genome editing reagents, including sgRNAs, pegRNAs, donor DNA templates, plasmids, and expression constructs
• Perform molecular cloning, DNA assembly, bacterial culture, plasmid purification, PCR, and sequence verification
• Support preparation and quality control of RNA reagents, including in vitro transcription and purification where applicable
• Prepare and track reagent sets for multiplex genome editing experiments, maintaining accurate construct and sample identities
• Work with Genome Engineering scientists to implement and troubleshoot CRISPR/Cas9, prime editing, and base editing designs
• Transfer validated reagents and clear experimental documentation to Cell Engineering colleagues for transfection and downstream cellular workflows
• Perform PCR-based genotyping, prepare samples for sequencing, and support analysis of single-locus and multiplex editing outcomes
• Maintain accurate electronic laboratory records, reagent inventories, and quality-control documentation in ELN
• Organize concurrent experiments, communicate results, and proactively improve workflows

Required Education, Skills, and Abilities:

• BA/BS or MA/MS in molecular biology, genetics, biotechnology, bioengineering, or a related field
• Demonstrated hands-on molecular biology research experience, including cloning, PCR, plasmid preparation, and sequence verification
• Practical experience supporting CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing and multiplex editing experiments or reagent workflows
• Experience preparing, handling, and quality-controlling DNA and/or RNA editing reagents
• Ability to independently execute established protocols, troubleshoot routine technical problems, and contribute immediately with limited training
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and written and oral communication skills

Preferred Skills and Abilities:

• Hands-on experience with prime editing and/or base editing reagents and workflows
• Experience designing or preparing pegRNAs, modified guide RNAs, or HDR donors
• Experience with in vitro transcription, RNA purification, or nucleic acid QC
• Experience with sequencing-based genotyping and analysis of multiplex edits
• Experience with electronic laboratory notebooks and cross-functional reagent handoffs

What Colossal Offers Full-Time Employees:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Excellent paid time off and company holidays so you can rest and recharge 
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
• Company matched 401k retirement plan
• Paid parental leave at 100% salary for up to 12 weeks
• Education reimbursement 
• An opportunity to help us return the Earth to a healthier state

The team at Colossal is committed, colorful, passionate, intelligent, collaborative, creative, experienced, scientific and world-class. That sounds like a lot to fit into one building. That’s why we are spread out in several locations that include laboratories, test facilities, academic institutions, libraries and offices. 

Through it all, however, we maintain a culture of positivity, hope, happiness and belief that we’re doing something big. Something Colossal.

Colossal is proud to be an equal employment opportunity workplace. We welcome people from all backgrounds as well as celebrate and support diversity. We are committed to providing an inclusive environment of mutual respect that is free from discrimination and harassment so everyone can thrive. 

EEO is the Law 

Search Firm Representatives: Colossal does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms. No fees will be paid for a hired candidate where no pre-existing agreement is in place. We handle most recruitment in-house. 

Colossal is proud to be named a Best Place to Work by BuiltIn for 4 years in a row across multiple categories in 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026:

• #1 on the 50 Best Startups to Work For in Dallas in 2023!
• 100 Best Midsize Places to Work in Dallas in 2024 & 2025
• 100 Best Places to Work in Dallas, TX (All Size Employers) in 2024, 2025, and 2026.

Built In 2026 Award Lists

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Most Loved Workplace Certification Page - Proud to be certified as a most loved workplace including: most loved CEO, most loved workplaces for LGBTQ+, most loved workplaces for women, and most loved workplaces for young professionals.

Newsweek's Most Loved Workplaces 2024 Award List - Excited to be amongst the winners of Newsweek's 2024 Most Loved Workplaces!