Research Associate

About Debut

Debut is the unconventional innovation lab spearheading the next generation of big business. Only Debut has a scalable, integrated, climate-positive creation model powered by biotechnology that puts human wellbeing at the center of everything we do—setting the new standard for profitable business and a new pace for an ever-changing world.  Our hybrid biotechnology approaches unlock latent markets, providing access to sustainably produced, natural ingredients with health benefits that cannot be obtained through other methods. We are committed to traversing the entire process, from ingredient discovery to the scaling of these products, for consumer markets. If you are passionate, enjoy fast-paced innovation and collaborative teams, then Debut is for you.  

Research Associate II - Ingredient and Product Innovation

Summary

Debut is seeking a Research Associate II to support the development and execution of in vitro assays for skincare ingredient discovery. The successful candidate will design and execute cell-based assays, maintain mammalian cell banks, and generate high-quality data in support of discovery programs.

Essential Functions

• Perform routine maintenance and expansion of mammalian cell lines.
• Execute, optimize, and troubleshoot in vitro cell-based assays utilizing techniques such as plate-based assays (e.g., absorbance, luminescence, fluorescence readouts), ELISA, flow cytometry, qPCR, and colorimetric assays.
• Perform isolation, purification, and characterization of nucleic acids to support gene expression analyses.
• Execute high-throughput sample processing workflows.
• Ensure sterile handling of samples, reagents, and laboratory equipment.
• Contribute to new assay design, development, and validation.
• Conduct thorough literature reviews and contribute to experimental planning based on peer-reviewed research.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data while maintaining accurate records in electronic lab notebooks and databases.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree + 2 years of experience OR Associate’s degree + 4 years of experience in cell biology, molecular biology, or a relevant field.
• Demonstrated experience in mammalian cell culture.
• Experience performing in vitro assays using standard cell biology techniques.
• Industry experience for mammalian cell culture is a plus.
• Experience with coding and automated record keeping is a plus.